Chess Opening Theory/1. e4/1...c5/2. Nf3/2...d6

=Open Sicilian= Black's 2...d6 gives them the option of several popular attacking lines, controls the e5 square, supports the c-pawn and activates their queen's bishop.

White's rationale for playing 2. Nf3 was to support a /3. d4/ advance which they may now play. Their best alternative to this, for rapid development, is /3. Bb5/+, forcing Black to block the check with a minor piece that would then be pinned to the king. Swashbuckling players might be tempted by /3. b4/, planning an unopposed d4 when the Black c-pawn is diverted to b4.

Theory table
'''1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 d6'''