Classical Variation, Traditional Variation, Main Line
- 1.d4Nf6
- 2.c4e6
- 3.Nf3b6
- 4.g3Bb7
- 5.Bg2Be7
- 6.O-OO-O
- 7.Nc3Ne4
- 8.Qc2Nxc3
- 9.Qxc3
485 games
The main tabiya of the old Queen's Indian main line, where an early knight trade leaves White with more space and Black with a sound, compact position.
Train it in TheoriaAbout the Main Line
This position arises after 9. Qxc3. The trade of knights has removed one of White's defenders of e4 and left White with more space but no clear target. Black now picks a plan: 9...f5 reinforces the grip on e4, 9...c5 strikes at d4, and 9...Be4 is another standard try. In the Lichess database 9...d6 is the most frequent reply. The line is known for drawish play. The engine rates it roughly balanced, and Black scores slightly better online.