The ace chess champion of India, Viswanathan Anand has raised his voice against the non-inclusion of chess in the Olympics. According to Anand, the game of chess should be included in the mega sporting event of the world. He further stated that giving chess the Olympics status will elevate the game to a higher level. Anand advocated in favour of the game by saying that adequate steps should be taken to include chess as a demonstration sport in four years time and as a full-fledged medal sport in eight years in Olympics.

 

The world champion has recently defeated Russian Vladimir Kramnik in a match-play series in Bonn, Germany to defend his world title. Last week, the London Assembly  voted unanimously for the inclusion of Twenty20 cricket in Olympics. Former Australian captain, Steve Waugh has also advocated for the inclusion of Twenty20 cricket in the games. Although the Olympics include host of sports but certain interesting and entertaining sports like Cricket and Chess are yet to make their place in the games. The efforts of players like Viswanathan Anand and Steve Waugh will surely enable Chess and Cricket to get Olympics status.