Inside Chess: July 2026
It comes to something when two children are playing for the World Chess Championship. Those aren’t my words, but one of a reporter confirming after the Candidates play-offs that reigning Indian World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju (born in 2006) will play Javokhir Sindarov (born in 2005) from Uzbekistan in November. It is the best example of just how brilliant young chess players have become especially with the development of chess computers and more coaching opportunities through platforms like Zoom. People today can access chess in ways I could never have dreamed of in the 1980s when I had a few books and got my news about chess through CEEFAX on the TV.
Does anyone even remember that? Now we have information from anywhere in the world at our fingertips, instantly. Wow, how the world has changed. So the title will remain in Asia one way or another. It used to be the property of the Russians (or Soviet Union) from the 1950s to the 1990s but that has all changed now. I am looking forward to this final because both players are hugely talented and very likeable. It will be not only about preparation and ability but how to handle those nerves with so much at stake. The date and host city are yet to be decided but I shall keep you all informed of any developments.
This month’s problem is quite lovely. It is White to play and checkmate Black in two moves. Can you solve it?
Write to me with your answer, Carl S. Portman MBE (Chess Correspondent), C/O Inside Time ‘CHESS’, Botley Mills, Botley, Southampton SO30 2GB. Also, please include your name, prison number, your prison address, and the month of the puzzle you are entering. The first correct answer drawn wins a back issue of ‘Chess Magazine’ donated by the Chess & Bridge shop, London.
The answer to June’s puzzle was 1.Qh1+ gxh1 2.Rg8# The winner will be announced next month.
May’s winner was Ashley from HMP Altcourse.
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