The story behind Cyrus Lakdawala's is one of a "conversion" to an opening that initially terrified him. Known for his witty, personal, and conversational writing style, Lakdawala’s book on the Sveshnikov is not just a technical guide but a chronicle of how he overcame his own cautious nature. The Story of "Instant Faith"

: The opening saw a massive surge in popularity after Magnus Carlsen chose it as his primary weapon during his 2018 World Championship match against Fabiano Caruana.

: His friend, National Master David Hart, goaded him into meeting a Grandmaster's as a joke.

: It is designed for aggressive players who are confident in their tactical ability or, like Lakdawala, players who need an opening that "won't allow them to be overly cautious".

His relationship with the Sveshnikov changed during a random online blitz session at his home:

Cyrus Lakdawala Opening Repertoire The Sveshn... May 2026

The story behind Cyrus Lakdawala's is one of a "conversion" to an opening that initially terrified him. Known for his witty, personal, and conversational writing style, Lakdawala’s book on the Sveshnikov is not just a technical guide but a chronicle of how he overcame his own cautious nature. The Story of "Instant Faith"

: The opening saw a massive surge in popularity after Magnus Carlsen chose it as his primary weapon during his 2018 World Championship match against Fabiano Caruana.

: His friend, National Master David Hart, goaded him into meeting a Grandmaster's as a joke.

: It is designed for aggressive players who are confident in their tactical ability or, like Lakdawala, players who need an opening that "won't allow them to be overly cautious".

His relationship with the Sveshnikov changed during a random online blitz session at his home: