B23

Sicilian Defense: Closed

Key moves: 1.e4 c5 2.Nc3

The Closed Sicilian avoids the main theoretical lines by developing the knight to c3 instead of the Open Sicilian's Nf3 and d4. White typically plays g3, Bg2 and castles kingside before deciding on a plan. It leads to slower, more positional play.

History & Notable Players

Popular with players who want to avoid the vast theory of the Open Sicilian. Boris Spassky was a notable practitioner.