In this video, Grandmaster Ivan Sokolov examines a recent game from the 2025 between Samuel Sevian and Gavrilescu, using it to highlight a subtle but important theme in reversed colour systems: the risks of premature piece placement, especially in the centre-heavy structures of the reversed King's Indian.
The focus is on a critical moment where White plays an early rook to e1. While this move may appear natural, it soon proves to be misplaced when the position calls for dynamic pawn breaks and kingside activity. Sokolov compares this to standard theory and demonstrates how, in similar structures, the rook is typically better placed on f1 to support an f4 push.
What you will learn in this video:
- Why early rook moves can clash with strategic plans in reversed setups
- How one tempo or misplaced piece can limit long-term flexibility
- How reversed King's Indian positions with a full centre differ in tempo balance and coordination
- How Black can comfortably equalise, or even take the initiative, by pushing d4 at the right moment
- Why engines may underestimate the practical impact of such imbalances, even when they appear subtle
Through side-by-side comparisons, engine suggestions, and his own deep insight, Sokolov shows how Black equalises easily and how the early rook to e1 leads to positions that are harder to play for White. The game ends in a draw, but not without offering plenty of lessons in timing, strategy, and the importance of placing your pieces where they truly belong.
This video is a practical guide to navigating reversed King's Indian structures with accuracy and purpose.
Sevian - Gavrilescu