Grandmaster Anish Giri has joined the esports organization Basilisk Gaming. The signing was announced Thursday in a press release and on social media.
Giri will start competing for Basilisk at the Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz, which begins July 31. He joins fellow grandmaster Vincent Keymer on the roster of the team known as Science's Esports Team.
Giri said the move fits his approach to the game. "Often my preparation resembles scientific work, and that connection between science, chess, and esports is what makes Basilisk a perfect fit," he said. "I am excited to be joining a team that brings these worlds together."
Basilisk CEO Christopher Bothur welcomed the addition. "Anish brings a rare combination of competitive drive and an orientation towards continuous learning," Bothur said. "We are thrilled to have him join Basilisk."
The organization was founded in 2020 and has ties to scientific groups including The Planetary Society and Caltech. Keymer signed with the team in 2025.