Checkmate

Episode 1 launches a brand-new chess tournament hosted by TV celebrity Anna Richardson and commentated by Simon Williams (Grandmaster)

Players' individual styles are assessed during this round of the tournament, and strategies are put to the test. Tiger Hillarp Persson faces off against Wenjun Ju, and Nino Maisuradze squares off with Nigel Short. Elisabeth Pahtz takes on Irina Krush, Richard Rapport goes to battle with Arkadij Naiditsch, and Igor Lysyj and Jovanka Houska's forces clash.

The Grandmasters continue to compete for the trophy during day three of the tournament. Igor sits for a skirmish with Wenjun, and Arkadij takes on Jovanka. Irina and Richard challenge each other on the board, and Nino faces off against Elizabeth. Nigel and Tiger's pieces intricately weave in a matchup that excites Anna and Simon.

The competition really heats up as the championship draws closer and closer. Nigel and Wenjun bid for a win on the board, and Elisabeth tries to outmaneuver Tiger's forces. Richard locks horns with Nino, Jovanka collides with Irina, and Igor and Arkadij contend for the crown.

Strategies are tested and the coveted trophy is almost within grasp. Elisabeth shouldn't be underestimated as she enters the arena against top seat Nigel. Richard and Tiger rumble on the board, and Arkadij straps on his boots for a brush with Wenjun. Irina shows up for a showdown against Igor, and Nino clashes pieces with Jovanka.

The final dayÕs games begin, and the hosts focus on the selected game of the day with detailed game analysis between a compelling battle between the Brits with Grandmasters Jovanka Houska and Nigel Short as well as a final round between Hungarian Grandmaster Richard Rapport and British Grandmaster Jovanka Houska.