The diagram shows the board after 1.c4 e5 [ECO A20-29]. This variation of the English Opening is called the Reversed Sicilian (or Sicilian Reversed). Since Black's first move renders 2.d4 more difficult, White spends the next few moves preparing d2-d4, while making ...d5 more problematic for Black.
- 2.Nc3 is a natural second move for White. The Knight goes to its best square and prevents ...d5.
- 2.g3 takes on independence only if White avoids an early Nc3.
- 2.Nf3 is not advisable, because it allows 2...e4.
After 2.Nc3, the most popular replies for Black are
- 2...Nf6 [A22-A24], which prepares ...d5, and
- 2...Nc6 [A25-A29], which again prevents 2.d4 by White. In fact, Black usually plays an early ...Nf6 anyway, which amounts to a simple transposition of move order.
The moves
- 2...d6 [A21], and
- 2...Bb4 [also A21]; are also playable.
Note that 2...Nf6 leaves Black the option of playing ...c6, in preparation for ...d5. A popular continuation is 3.Nf3, forcing Black to protect the e-Pawn before playing ...d5, followed by 3...Nc6 4.g3, where both players make their obvious moves early. Now Black has to decide the development of the Bf8 and whether or not to open the center with ...d5.
