TN wrote on 06/15/16 at 17:18:01:


That's the root of the problem: as all replies would fit into my repertoire, it's harder to decide what to play. There are so many options that I'd like to hear your opinions about which one is, if not objectively the best, the more dynamic from black point of view.

If you don't feel the Closed Sicilian is any problem against any Black setup, either 2...a6 or 2...e6 should serve you well. Both avoid the Tiviakov Grand Prix and offer interesting, probably around equal play against the regular Grand Prix. Though of course you should be prepared for 3.g3 against either.

After 2...a6 3.Nf3 you can no longer play the ...Qc7 Taimanov, while after 2...e6 3.Nf3 obviously the Najdorf is out of the mix. Apart from that both moves fit all the rest of your Open Sicilians.

All that said, it's my impression that the Grand Prix has been looking toothless in the main lines lately as well.