Nine-year-old from Oman creates history at Indian national chess meet

Muscat – Nine-year-old Ilaan Shafeek, a Class 4 student of Indian School Bausher, has etched his name in the record books by becoming the first student from Oman to win the Indian National School Chess Championship.

Ilaan clinched the Under-9 title at the 14th Indian National School Chess Championship, held at the Sarusajai Indoor Stadium in Guwahati, Assam, from December 27 to 31, 2025. The prestigious event brought together some of the country’s most promising young players, with participants representing 28 Indian states.

Displaying remarkable composure and consistency well beyond his years, Shafeek scored an impressive eight points from nine rounds, recording seven wins and two draws to secure the championship. His performance stood out in a tournament widely regarded as one of India’s most competitive school-level chess events, known for testing players’ strategic depth, stamina and mental resilience.

Throughout the championship, Shafeek impressed observers with his calm demeanour, mature positional understanding and ability to perform under pressure against strong opponents from established chess centres across India.

On his return to Muscat, Shafeek received a warm reception at Muscat International Airport, where teachers, coaches, friends and family gathered to celebrate the historic achievement.

His parents expressed heartfelt appreciation to Indian School Bausher for its continuous support, highlighting the role of the school’s leadership in enabling Shafeek to balance academic commitments with competitive chess. Special thanks were also extended to Principal Prabhakaran for his encouragement and guidance.

Shafeek trains under Egyptian coach Megdhi at Indian School Bausher and the Chess Master Academy. Under his mentorship, the young champion has significantly strengthened his opening preparation, endgame techniques and competitive mindset.

Earlier in December 2025, Shafeek added another milestone to his growing list of achievements by winning a FIDE-rated Classical Open Tournament in Oman, featuring 54 players from eight countries, becoming the youngest Classical FIDE-rated champion in the sultanate’s history.

He has also represented Oman at international competitions, including the Arab Club Chess Championship, where he held Syrian International Master Al Zaim Talal to a draw and defeated Palestinian coach Ahmed Nidal.

Chess talent runs in the family, with Shafeek’s siblings also excelling at CBSE national-level tournaments. The family, from Kerala’s Thrissur district, has made Oman their home.

At just nine years old, Shafeek’s success has brought pride to his school and the wider Indian expatriate community, while underscoring Oman’s growing presence on the international chess scene.