Nine-year-old Ilaan Shafeek from Oman has become the first student from his country to win the Indian National School Chess Championship. The Class 4 student from Indian School Bausher clinched the under-9 category with an impressive performance in Guwahati. His achievement highlights Oman's emerging talent in international chess.
Ilaan Shafeek, a nine-year-old Class 4 student at Indian School Bausher in Oman, made history by securing the under-9 title at the 14th Indian National School Chess Championship. The event took place from December 27 to 31, 2025, at the Sarusajai Indoor Stadium in Guwahati, Assam, drawing participants from 28 Indian states.
Shafeek demonstrated exceptional skill and composure, earning eight points over nine rounds with seven wins and two draws. Observers noted his calm demeanor, mature positional understanding, and ability to handle pressure against competitors from India's top chess centers. This victory marks him as the first Omani student to claim the title in this highly competitive tournament, which tests young players' strategy, stamina, and mental resilience.
Upon returning to Muscat, Shafeek was greeted with enthusiasm at Muscat International Airport by teachers, coaches, friends, and family. His parents expressed gratitude to Indian School Bausher for its support in balancing academics and chess, particularly thanking Principal Prabhakaran for his guidance.
Shafeek trains with Egyptian coach Megdhi at the school and Chess Master Academy, where he has honed his opening preparation, endgame techniques, and competitive mindset. Just weeks earlier, in December 2025, he won a FIDE-rated Classical Open Tournament in Oman among 54 players from eight countries, becoming the youngest such champion in the sultanate.
He has also represented Oman internationally, including at the Arab Club Chess Championship, where he drew against Syrian International Master Al Zaim Talal and defeated Palestinian coach Ahmed Nidal. From a family in Kerala's Thrissur district now based in Oman, Shafeek's siblings also compete successfully in CBSE national-level tournaments. His success brings pride to his school and the Indian expatriate community in Oman, signaling the nation's rising profile in global chess.
