Rat Defense, English Rat

The Rat Defense, English Rat[1][2] is an irregular Queen's Pawn Game chess opening characterised by the initial moves:

1. d4 d6
2. c4 e5
Rat Defense
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Moves1.d4 d6 2.c4 e5
ECOA41
ParentOld Indian Defense

The position can also arise from an English Opening move order 1.c4 d6 2.d4 e5.

Another possible move order can be reached via the Englund Gambit: 1. d4 e5 2. c4 d6.

The "English Rat" has been played by top players such as Aronian, Anand, Svidler, Rapport, and Smirin.

Gambit lines

  • Lisbon Gambit:[3][4] 1.d4 d6 2.c4 e5 3. dxe5 Nc6, which usually continues 4. exd6 Bxd6 or (4...Qxd6).
  • Pounds Gambit:[5] 1. d4 d6 2. c4 e5 3. dxe5 Be6

See also

Related openings:

References

Bibliography

  • Jouni Yrjölä and Jussi Tella (2001). An Explosive Chess Opening Repertoire for Black. Gambit Publications Ltd. ISBN 1-901983-501.
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