Kathmandu, March 22

Candidate Master Keshav Shrestha, Himal Lama and Bhagawati Prasad Sharma won their fourth round matches of the Asian Zonal 3.2 Chess Championship here today.

In the open category, Shrestha outplayed Sri Lankan opponent RS Kalugampitiya and accumulated three points from four rounds. GM Ziaur Rahman maintained his lead with 3.5 points after he saw off fellow countryman GM Enamul Hossain. Similarly, Himal Lama defeated Candidate Master Kshitiz Bhandari and Bhagawati Prasad Sharma recorded a victory over CM Sajin Maharjan. Lama, Sharma and Bangaldeshi International Master Abu Safian Shakil, who defeated Badri Lal Nepali, have 2.5 points each.

In women’s section, Kusi Matina beat Sindira Joshi and Shanta Thapa recorded a win over Poonam Prasai. Sabina Shrestha faced a defeat against WCM Mahamuda Hoque Chowdhury of Bangladesh.

WIM Hamid Rani of Bangladesh recorded fourth consecutive victory to lead the standing. Rani saw off her teammate Sharmin Samiha Shimmi. WIM Shamima Akter (three), also from Bangladesh, was second.