25 Apr 13
Originally posted by vishyanandStarter for 10 :-
I see GM's playing this variation. What's the point of Bg4?
1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 Bg4
To take the knight then set the pawns on the light squares to blunt the g2 bishop.
The capture also removes a defender of the h4 square which is useful should black decide to attack the fianchetto formation with h5 - h4.
Finally the option exists for Qd7 followed by Bh3 to exchange the g2 bishop.
26 Apr 13
Originally posted by RagwortInteresting. So, white's play will be to make these options ineffective. Will look at some games in more depth
Starter for 10 :-
To take the knight then set the pawns on the light squares to blunt the g2 bishop.
The capture also removes a defender of the h4 square which is useful should black decide to attack the fianchetto formation with h5 - h4.
Finally the option exists for Qd7 followed by Bh3 to exchange the g2 bishop.