The English Opening with 2.Nc3 arises after 1.c4 e5 2.Nc3. ECO code: A21.

Overview

This is the most popular continuation in the Reversed Sicilian Defence lines. White develops the knight toward the centre, supporting both d4 and e4 potential advances.

Main Lines

• 2...Nf6 (A22) – The most common, leading to rich middlegame play.

• 2...Nc6 – The Symmetrical (A25), often leading to Four Knights Game-type positions.

• 2...Bb4 – The Kramnik-Shirov Counterattack, an aggressive response.

• 2...d6 – Solid, aiming for a Closed Sicilian Defence reversed.

Strategic Themes & Plans

White plays a reversed Closed Sicilian Defence with an extra tempo. The most common plan involves g3, Bg2, d3, and an eventual f4 break. The extra tempo compared to the Sicilian gives White practical chances in positions that would otherwise be considered equal.