Sicilian Defense: O’Kelly–Taimanov Line
Sicilian Defense — O’Kelly–Taimanov Line
Definition
The O’Kelly–Taimanov Line is a sub-variation of the Sicilian Defense that begins 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 a6 (the O’Kelly move) followed by 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nc6, when Black steers play toward the Taimanov structure with …Nc6 and, very often, …e6. In shorthand you will see the move order written as: 1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 a6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nc6, “Sicilian Defense: O’Kelly–Taimanov” (ECO code B28/B46 hybrid).
How the Line Is Used
- Sidestepping Main Theory: By inserting the flexible pawn move 2…a6, Black avoids certain highly analyzed Open-Sicilian lines—especially the so-called Open Najdorf and traditional Taimanov variations—while still keeping the option of …e6 and …Qc7 typical of the Taimanov.
- Move-Order Traps: The early …a6 prevents White’s immediate Nb5 ideas and can tempt White into inaccuracies, e.g. 5.Nc3!? allowing …e6 followed by … Nf6 and a later …Bb4, pinning the knight.
- Transpositional Tool: Black can head for several branches after 4…Nc6:
- 4…Nc6 5.Nc3 e6 – pure Taimanov set-up.
- 4…Nc6 5.Nc3 d6 – transposes to certain Najdorf lines but with …a6 already inserted.
- 4…Nc6 5.Be2 or 5.c4 – White may switch to Maroczy-Bind style structures; Black must be ready for a more positional battle.
Strategic Themes
- Pawn Structure: Black’s …a6 keeps the b5-square under control, enabling …b5 or …Bb4 later. After …e6 and …Qc7, the half-open c-file and central pawn tension (e4 vs. e6 + c5) dictate play.
- Piece Placement: Typical Taimanov pieces: knights on c6 & f6, bishops often on b4 and e7, queen on c7, rooks on c8 & d8. White usually develops Nc3, Be3, Qd2, 0-0-0, aiming for a kingside pawn storm (g4–g5).
- Timing of …d5: A thematic pawn break for Black. Because …a6 keeps Nb5 tricks at bay, …d5 can sometimes be played one move earlier than in standard Taimanov positions.
Historical Background
The pure O’Kelly Variation (2…a6) is named after Belgian master Albéric O’Kelly de Galway, while the Taimanov Variation (…Nc6 followed by …e6) honors Soviet grandmaster Mark Taimanov. In the 1960s and 70s the two ideas were occasionally blended by Black players looking for fresh positions without learning Najdorf “phone-book” theory. Grandmasters such as Bent Larsen, Henrique Mecking, and later Alexander Beliavsky employed the hybrid with success.
Illustrative Example
Below is a short, model game that shows typical motifs. Notice how Black uses the early …a6 to prepare …b5 and a thematic …d5 break.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- World Champion Anatoly Karpov used 2…a6 only once in a classical game—but he won impressively against Ungvari (Sarajevo 1972), transposing to a favorable Taimanov-type endgame.
- Because the pawn on a6 slightly weakens the b6-square, computers originally disliked the O’Kelly move. However, modern engines at depth 40+ show the variation is strategically sound, assigning an evaluation close to equality (≈ 0.20 pawns).
- The line appeals to surprise-weapon specialists. GM Shakhriyar Mamedyarov used it after only two days’ preparation to defeat GM Wang Hao in the 2014 FIDE Grand Prix.