Brisbane, Dec 13 (NationPress) Indian cricketer Shubman Gill has offered his warmest congratulations to the 18-year-old chess sensation D Gukesh, who etched his name in history on Thursday by becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion.

Gukesh's stunning triumph against China's Ding Liren in the concluding match of a fiercely contested championship positions him as only the second Indian to earn this prestigious title, following the iconic Viswanathan Anand.

During a pre-match press conference before India's third Test against Australia in Brisbane, Gill praised Gukesh for his remarkable accomplishment, labeling it a source of inspiration for athletes in various fields. “I would like to convey my congratulations on behalf of the entire Indian cricket team. Achieving the status of the youngest world champion is indeed an extraordinary accomplishment,” Gill commented.

Gukesh's impressive victory unfolded after a tense finale. With both competitors locked at 6.5 points in the championship, the pivotal Game 14 highlighted the young Indian's tactical genius. Gukesh seized an opportunity from a crucial mistake made by Ding Liren on the 53rd move, utilizing his pawn advantage and applying relentless pressure to clinch the win.

As Gukesh's achievement takes center stage in the media, the Indian cricket team is looking to draw motivation from his poise and resolve. The squad, led by Rohit Sharma, is set to face Australia in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on December 14, with the series tied at 1-1.

India began strongly with a decisive win in the Perth opener, but Australia rebounded in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, revealing weaknesses in India's batting order. Shubman Gill, who has experienced challenges in finding his rhythm during the series, is eager to make a significant contribution and help restore his team's momentum.

Gill, instrumental in India's historic victory at the Gabba in 2021, draws inspiration from that unforgettable moment. At that time, India defied the odds to conquer Australia's stronghold, handing the home team a rare defeat at the venue.