English Opening: King's English Variation, Kramnik-Shirov Counterattack
ECO A21
Move order
1. c4 e5 2. Nc3 Bb4
Ideas
ECO A covers irregular and flank openings—systems that skip the main e4/d4 fight early. White controls d5 without committing the d-pawn—the English family. The variation is defined by a short, recognizable move order. Use the diagram and SAN list to recognize the tabiya, then try the line against Maia to explore typical plans in practice.