Big Clamp Formation

The Big Clamp Formation is a closed anti-Sicilian in which White does not open the center with d4. Instead, the pawns go to c3, d3, e4 and f4, a compact wall that claims kingside space and keeps Black's pieces out of d4. Black usually answers 4...g6, aiming the bishop at the long diagonal, 4...Nf6 or 4...e6. The line is uncommon, the engine rates it as balanced, and results are almost even.