The English – Reversed Sicilian with 2...Nc6 arises after 1.c4 e5 2.Nc3 Nc6. ECO code: A25.

Overview

The most symmetrical approach in the Reversed Sicilian Defence. Both sides develop knights toward the centre, and the game's character depends on the chosen pawn structures.

Main Lines

• 3.g3 – Main line, followed by Bg2 and d3 or Nf3.

• 3.Nf3 – May transpose into Four Knights Game English structures.

Strategic Themes & Plans

White plays a reversed Closed Sicilian Defence and aims for a f4 break or d3/e3 setup. Black can respond with ...Nf6 and ...d5 for central counterplay, or ...g6 and ...Bg7 for a King's Indian-like approach.