Flank openings
Polish (Sokolsky) Opening
1.b4ECO A00
White grabs queenside space with 1.b4 and fianchettoes the bishop to b2, eyeing the long diagonal. A genuine surprise weapon that leaves theory at move one and plays for original, understanding-based positions.
Key ideas
- 1.b4 and Bb2 pressure e5 and the long diagonal while gaining queenside space.
- White follows with e3, Nf3, c4 and flexible development, choosing a break later.
- Black should occupy the centre with …d5 and …e5 and question the b4-pawn with …a5.
Who it suits
Independent players who want to dodge theory and play their own game as White.
Add it to your repertoire.
Drill the Polish (Sokolsky) Opening move by move against the board until it's second nature.
Open the trainer