Lodhi lost one game, played two draws and won eight matches during the championship. - File Photo

According to Mind Sports Association (MSAP), Lodhi from Gujranwala defeated National Master Aziz Farooqi of Sindh to raise his tally to nine points at the conclusion of the 11-round competition.

Lodhi lost one game, played two draws and won eight matches during the championship.

“It's a great honor for me to retain my title. My target is now to achieve the Grand Master title in the coming months,” 45-year-old unemployed Lodhi said.

He said MSAP is partially extending support but he was facing financial problems because of unemployment since the past decade.

In the meantime MSAP Director Tariq Rasheed Khan has announced a cash reward of Rs.10, 000 for Mahmood Lodhi on winning the title for a record 12th time.

“Lodhi is our legendary chess player. We congratulated him on his triumph and will be presenting the cash award in Karachi,” he said. - APP