India, June 5 -- R Praggnanandhaa defeated D Gukesh in their Round 9 Norway Chess showdown, completing a hat-trick of wins. The Indian GM is a title contender in the ongoing tournament and is in second place with 15 points, behind Wesley So (15.5), who leads the standings. Meanwhile, Alireza Firouzja (14.5) is in third spot.

Praggnanandhaa failed miserably in the recently held Candidates tournament, but will be looking to put behind that disappointment with a title at Norway Chess. He also bagged an unprecedented double against world No. 1 and defending champion Magnus Carlsen on Tuesday.

After his win against Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa spoke to Norway Chess' official broadcast and looked extremely delighted. "Quite proud about this game ho...