Monday’s position was taken from Zukertort – Weiss (Vienna 1882).

White, one of the two strongest players, along with Steinitz, of his time, played Rd8 here, eventually losing after erring again later in the game.

He’d have won if he’d preferred 35. Rxc6! Kxc6 36. Rd6+ Kb7 37. c6+ Ka8.

White can regain the rook with advantage by playing the immediate 38. b7+ here, but it’s even better to wait, as Black is effectively in zugzwang, having no moves which don’t weaken his position.

If, for example, 38. Rd1 (with the idea of Bc5) Black might continue 38… Ne4, when after 39. b7+ Rxb7 40. cxb7+ Kxb7, you can now play 41. Rd7+.

Solving this puzzle required both calculation and assessment: were you up to the challenge?