Sicilian Defense: Taimanov Variation, Bastrikov Variation, English Attack

ECO B48

Move order

1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nc6 5. Nc3 Qc7 6. Be3

Sicilian Defense: Taimanov Variation, Bastrikov Variation, English Attack (B48)abcdefgh12345678

Ideas

ECO B covers semi-open games after 1. e4 where Black does not reply …e5. White stakes a claim in the center and opens lines for the bishop and queen. This entry tracks a longer branch in the opening tree. Use the diagram and SAN list to recognize the tabiya, then try the line against Maia to explore typical plans in practice.

Play this opening against Maia