1.d4 — the closed and Indian games
Dutch Defence, Leningrad Variation
1.d4 f5 2.g3 Nf6 3.Bg2 g6ECO A88
Black combines the Dutch Defence's kingside space and attacking chances with a King's-Indian-style fianchetto, aiming both bishops at the kingside and centre at once. A modern, aggressive way to play the Dutch that avoids the older Stonewall structure's cramped bishop.
Key ideas
- The g6/Bg7 fianchetto gives Black a strong long-diagonal bishop the Stonewall Dutch structurally lacks.
- Black often follows with O-O, …d6, and a timely …e5 break to open the position for the fianchettoed bishop.
- Sharper and more piece-active than the classical Stonewall Dutch, at the cost of a slightly loosened kingside.
Who it suits
Dutch Defence players who want active piece play and a strong fianchetto bishop over the Stonewall's solidity.
Add it to your repertoire.
Drill the Dutch Defence, Leningrad Variation move by move against the board until it's second nature.
Open the trainer