Hand_Evaluation__Bidding_Decisions1.pdf

Contents CHAPTER 1 HAND EVA EVA LUA TION ............ ......................... .......................... .........................5 ............5 1.1. FACTORS IN HAND EVALUATION ...............................................................5 1.2. THE RANKING METHOD OF HAND EVALUATION IN THE SLAM ZONE .......................................................................................................8 1.3. HAND EVALUATION IN COMPETITIVE BIDDING ......................................12 1.4. BIDDING AFTER OPPONENT ’S DOUBLE ...................................................16 1.5. HAND EVALUATION AND FURTHER BIDDING AFTER A SPLINTER ...............................................................................................22 1.6. HAND EVALUATION AFTER NON -SPLINTER SHORTNESS BID ...................41 1.7 HAND EVALUATION AFTER FIT – BUT NO SHORTNESS – HAS BEEN FOUND ..........................................................................................50

CHAPTER 2 BIDDING DECISIONS .............. ........................... .......................... ................... ......53 53 2.1. A HUNDRED DEALS BIDDING .................... ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............ ...... 55 BIDDING TEST ............. 2.1.1. PROBLEMS 1–10 ...................... ................................. ...................... ...................... ....................... ....................... .................55 ......55 2.1.2. PROBLEMS 11–20 11–20 ...................... ................................. ...................... ...................... ....................... ....................... ...............67 ....67 2.1.3. PROBLEMS 21–30 21–30 ...................... ................................. ...................... ...................... ....................... ....................... ...............75 ....75 2.1.4. PROBLEMS 31–40 31–40 ...................... ................................. ...................... ...................... ....................... ....................... ...............83 ....83 2.1.5. PROBLEMS 41–50 41–50 ...................... ................................. ...................... ...................... ....................... ....................... ...............94 ....94 2.1.6. PROBLEMS 51–60 51–60 ....................... .................................. ...................... ....................... ....................... ...................... ............. 102 2.1.7. PROBLEMS 61–70 61–70 ....................... .................................. ...................... ....................... ....................... ...................... ............. 112 2.1.8. PROBLEMS 71–80 71–80 ....................... .................................. ...................... ....................... ....................... ...................... ............. 122 2.1.9. PROBLEMS 81–90 81–90 ....................... .................................. ...................... ....................... ....................... ...................... ............. 130 2.1.10. PROBLEMS 91–100 91–100 ....................... .................................. ...................... ....................... ....................... .....................138 ..........138

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Chapter 1 HAND EVALUATION ACTORS CTORS IN HAND EVAL EVA L UA UATION TION 1.1. F A The ability to evaluate one’s hand accurately is the key to winning bridge. It can be learned, but it requires plenty of work and discussion within your partnership. Interestingly, it is not so important to assess one’s hand in exactly the same way that your partner does, or even in a similar manner. You just need to know partner’s way of doing it. Hand evaluation reflects what is happening inside and outside us. It mirrors our sensibility – this complex, ever-changing feature of our souls. Our sensibility results not only from our bridge past – both distant and near – but also from the present, the reality that surrounds surrounds us. Factors in hand evaluation include: 1) 2) 3) 4)

Strength in HCP (A=4, K=3, Q=2, J=1); Shape – from 4333 to 7600; Possession of tens and high spot cards (9, 8); The quality of honors: in suit suit contracts aces and and kings kings are are more more desirable, in notrump – usually lower l ower honors. 5) The distribution of honors: honors: evaluation of this factor will change as more information from the bidding becomes available. 6) Suit quality: quality: the trump suit in suit contracts, contracts, the main source of tricks in notrump.

5

Hand Evaluation. Bidding Decisions

The analysis will be based on concepts of positive and negative deviation – in other words, the deviation from average for each of the above factors. factors. ♠ A

KQ ♥ A 6 5 ♦ Q 4 3 ♣ 7 5 3 2

♠ J

76 ♥ K Q J ♦ J 75 2 ♣ J 10 4

N W

E S

After a start of 1NT – 2NT, many partnerships would play the hand in 2NT, where taking seven tricks is a challenge in itself. There is clearly a negative deviation here, both in shape of both hands and in distribution of honors. Slight changes in both factors improve i mprove the contract considerably: ♠ A

KQ ♥ A J 6 5 ♦ J4 ♣ 9 5 3 2

J 76 5 ♥ K Q 2 ♦ Q 7 5 ♣ J 10 4 ♠

N W

E S

Eight tricks are there, and the ninth may come with the diamond lead. Now let’s imagine we possess all the side-suit honors and the only problem is the trump suit. How good will a small slam be with the following trump suits: A) B) C) D)

A752–J643 A 7 5 2 – J 10 4 3 A 9 5 2 – J 10 4 3 A 9 8 2 – J 10 4 3

– – – –

very bad; poor; good; very good;

The next couple of examples illustrate the significance of the honor distribution. W

AK654 ♥ A Q 7 5 ♦ 7 5 4 ♣ 2 ♠

E1

N W

E S

6

♠ Q

72 ♥ K 8 6 4 ♦ 10 8 ♣ 9 8 5 4

E2

♠ 7

32 ♥ 8 6 4 2 ♦ Q 10 ♣ K Q 54

1. Hand Evaluation

Thanks to the wonderful distribution of honors on hand E1 (5 HCP) the heart game is a reasonable contract – it requires a 3–2 split in both majors. With the stronger (7 HCP) E2 hand it will be hard enough to make eight tricks. W

KQ764 ♥ K Q 3 ♦ 6 54 ♣ K8 ♠

E1

N W

E S

A J 10 8 2 ♥ 4 ♦ A 10 9 ♣ A 7 6 3 ♠

E2

A J 10 8 2 ♥ A 10 9 ♦ 3 ♣ A 7 6 3 ♠

A disastrous distribution of honors on the first hand makes a slam virtually hopeless. Even if declarer is spared a diamond lead and the heart ace is onside, the contract cannot be made if South knows enough to duck the first heart trick. With hand E2 the honors are located favorably and a slam is a walk in the park. On the next hand shape plays the key role. W

K 10 9 6 ♥ A K Q 6 4 ♦ 64 ♣ Q8 ♠

E1

N W

E S

♠ A

43 ♥ J 10 7 5 ♦ A 7 2 ♣ A J 5

E2

A4 ♥ J 10 7 5 ♦ A 73 2 ♣ A J 5 ♠

Due to the flat distribution of E1 hand (3–4–3–3) the chances for slam are very slim. From the point of view of the shape factor, therefore, there is a negative deviation. Moving one card from spades to diamonds ( E2) improves the contract dramatically, making it dependent on the club finesse after a diamond lead, while it is practically cold with any other lead. The positive deviation in shape – ♠ Ax accompanying four trumps – should affect our evaluation of this hand, especially after learning about spades being partner’s second suit. suit.

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1.2.

RANK ING METHOD METHOD OF HA HA ND THE RANKING EVALUATION IN THE SLAM ZONE

There are two areas where hand evaluation is of critical importance: slam bidding and competitive bidding. To clarify the analysis of slam bidding I propose to rank the hands on a 0–10 scale. Let’s say partner invites us to bid slam. How should we react? It will obviously depend on the evaluation of our hand. There are four cases: 1) If I rank my hand at the bottom of the scale, from 0 to 2, I decline straight away. For instance (using standard bidding):

1♠ 2♦ 3♣ 4♠

— 2♣ — 2♥ — 3♠

I don’t want to engage in any conversation concerning slam. Example hands: A) ♠ J 7 53 2 ♥ A ♦ K QJ 7 ♣ J 5 3

B) ♠ Q5432 ♥ 6 ♦ A KQ 5 ♣ 8 6 4

C) ♠ K8742 ♥ K ♦ Q 65 3 ♣ A 9 8

D) ♠ A 10 9 5 4 ♥ J ♦ K Q9 5 ♣ J 5 2

A) Extremely bad location of honors, weak weak trump suit – ranking zero. That means that even if partner continues to the five level, l evel, we will refuse again. B) Negative deviation deviation in strength, strength, weak weak trumps, trumps, reasonable reasonable honor location – ranking two. If partner repeats the invitation, we should accept. C) Bad honor location, lack of high cards. An optimist would rank it one, a pessimist – zero. D) Acceptable trump suit and honor location, although a weak hand in terms of HCP – one. One more try from partner would convince us to cue bid. 8

1. Hand Evaluation

2) If I rank my hand 3 to 5, I initiate an exchange of cue-bids up to the game level.

1♠ 2♦ 3♣ 4♦ 4♠

— — — —

2♣ 2♥ 3♠ 4♥

The message is: I want to talk, but I’m a bit nervous about slam prospects. A) ♠ AJ654 ♥ 6 ♦ K QJ 7 ♣ 6 5 3

B) ♠ A K 10 5 3 ♥ 5 ♦ K J 10 5 ♣ 8 7 2

C) ♠ Q 10 6 4 3 ♥ 10 ♦ A KJ 7 ♣ Q 10 4

D) ♠ QJ942 ♥ J ♦ A K 10 3 ♣ Q J 10

A) In spite of minimum strength the excellent location of honors honors allows us to rank the hand three. One cue-bid is all we can afford. Even if partner goes to the five level, we shall discourage him. B) The assets of this hand are similar to those of the previous one, save for two nicely placed tens. Our rank – four, which means we will respond positively to another invitation from partner. C) Four again, two black tens being an important factor. D) Club sequence, sequence, decent trumps, good good diamonds diamonds – ranking five. If partner moves forward, we will make it to the slam (perhaps (perhaps even a grand slam). 3) I rank my hand 6 to 8. I will surely not stop at the four level.

1♠ 2♦ 3♣ 4♣ 5♣

— — — —

2♣ 2♥ 3♠ 4♦

These are four opener’s hands corresponding to the above auction. How would you evaluate them?

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A) ♠ K7654 ♥ 9 ♦ K J9 6 ♣ A K 5

B) ♠ K J 10 4 3 ♥ 5 ♦ Q J8 7 ♣ A K 6

C) ♠ A Q 10 9 7 ♥ 3 ♦ J 10 3 2 ♣ A K J

D) ♠ K Q 10 4 2 ♥ 8 ♦ Q 10 6 3 ♣ A K 10

A) Poor trump trump suit should make make us cautious – ranking six. We will continue cue-bidding at the five level. A long sequence of cue-bids indicates problems in the trump suit. K7654 ♥ 9 ♦ K J9 6 ♣ A K 5 ♠

♠ Q

N W

E S

93 ♥ A K 5 4 ♦ A Q 10 ♣ Q J 9

Even such strong a hand as East’s in the diagram above does not make slam a good contract. How can you avoid it? There are two ways: either by bidding 5♠ instead of 5♣ (making slam dependent on the quality of partner’s trumps), which is, though, not fully justified by the actual West cards; or by: (…) — 5 ♦ 5♥ — 5 ♠ We have all the necessary controls and lots of good intentions, but the trumps are far from solid. B) Decent trumps, trumps, good good honor honor distribution, distribution, but we need to find partner with plenty of key cards cards – ranking six. C) Diamonds are the major problem. problem. If If partner confirms concentration of values here with 5 ♦, we will risk a slam. After 5♥ – we will discourage him. Ranking seven. D) All the honors seem to be working, working, plenty of tens, especially ♦10 may prove golden – ranking eight. Only a negative 5 ♠ from partner may stop us from bidding slam.

10

1. Hand Evaluation

4) I rank my hand at the top of the scale, 9 to 10, and partner will have to find serious arguments to dissuade me from a slam. I aim to explore grand slam opportunities.

Most hands from this range qualify for Blackwood. A) ♠ KQJ94 ♥ 6 ♦ K Q 10 5 ♣ A Q 6

1♠ 2♦ 3♣ 4♣ 4NT

— — — —

B) ♠ A K 10 8 6 ♥ 5 ♦ A Q7 6 ♣ K J 7

C) ♠ AQ975 ♥ 9 ♦ A 10 8 6 ♣ K Q J

D) ♠ K J 10 9 4 ♥ 8 ♦ K Q J 10 ♣ A K 6

2♣ 2♥ 3♠ 4♦ – Blackwood

A) If partner shows three key cards, we will continue with 6♣, asking for a club honor. B) After the 5♥ response (two key cards without wit hout trump queen) we should give up on grand slam. After 5 ♠ (two key cards with the queen) we will ask for an extra club honor. We shall of course be equally content with a 6 ♥ response (showing ♥ K). C) Similar theme. Three key cards out of five (four aces and the trump king) make a grand slam a real prospect. We will continue with 6♦, expressing our uncertainty about this suit and passing the final decision to partner. The following are his possible hands: 1) ♠ K J6 4 ♥ A 10 5 ♦ K5 ♣ A 7 5 3

2) ♠ K 10 6 ♥ AJ ♦ K5 3 ♣ A 10 7 3 2

3) ♠ K J 2 ♥ A 8 7 ♦ K Q 4 ♣ A 4 3 2

4) ♠ K 86 4 ♥ A K Q ♦ K75 ♣ A 10 9

7) 7♠. Not to worry, trumps will help us out. 8) 7NT. Thanks to the the long clubs we we can count 13 tricks. 9) 7♠. The diamond queen and the fourth club make a grand slam a good bet (we don’t know about the club jack in opener’s hand). 10) 7NT. Two additional heart heart tricks and the total is 13. 13. 11


1.3.

AND ND EVALUA EVAL UATION TION IN COMPETITIVE COMPETITIVE H A BIDDING

Now let us look at the typical competitive auction. When cue-bidding in such situations, it is of utmost importance to be able to determine whether the control is based on shortness (void or singleton) or an honor. This difference is the key to successful hand evaluation. Here is a common sequence:

W

N

E

S

1♠ ?

2♥

3♥*

Pass

* – Game forcing with spade support.

A) 3 ♠

– No shortness. We might be considering slam (having some positive deviations) or be willing to consent to 3NT. 3NT. B) 3NT – To play. C) 4♣ – Singleton or void in clubs. D) 4 ♦ – Singleton or void in diamonds. E) 4 ♥ – Singleton or void in hearts. F) 4 ♠ – No shortness and lack of positive deviations (minimum hand). The above pattern of rebidding allows us to distinguish between honor controls and shortness controls, thus fulfilling our basic requirement for competitive bidding. Its weakness, on the other hand, lies in the fact that singletons and voids are bid within a wide range of strength. This is especially troubling when the cue-bid is just below game in the agreed suit. In this case it is a heart cue-bid. Let’s take a look at some examples. 1.

AQ874 ♥ 3 ♦ K J 9 ♣ Q 10 9 4 ♠

W

K J 10 3 ♥ 10 4 2 ♦ A Q 6 ♣ K 5 3 ♠

N E S

12

1. Hand Evaluation

With all the HCP outside the suit of partner’s shortness, it is only natural for East to positively reevaluate his hand after heart cue-bid from West. And yet even 5♠ is in danger – it depends on finding the ♣ J. 2.

KJ642 ♥ 6 ♦ A Q4 3 ♣ K 8 7 ♠

♠ A

S

Q98 ♥ J8 ♦ K J 10 ♣ Q 6 5 3

N

♠ Q

N W

E

5♠ is even worse now. 3.

AK873 ♥ 7 ♦ Q J 8 ♣ A 8 7 4 ♠

W

E S

J 10 ♥ Q4 ♦ A K 10 3 ♣ Q J 3 2

This time five is the safety level, provided EW can end the auction here. 4.

Q J 10 9 5 3 ♥ 10 ♦ A8 7 ♣ A K 8 ♠

♠ A

N W

E S

K76 ♥ K9 ♦ J 10 6 ♣ Q J 9 5

Slam is very good here. The question is whether opener will make another try after responder’s discouraging 4 ♠. 5.

AKJ753 ♥ 9 ♦ K 10 4 ♣ A 4 3 ♠

♠ Q

N W

E S

10 9 ♥ K Q 10 5 ♦ A 8 7 ♣ K 8 7

Slam is guaranteed if North puts up the finesses the ♥ 10.

13

♥

A or declarer successfully


The problem outlined above can be solved if we sacrifice the natural (to play) meaning of 3NT rebid. rebid.

W

N

E

S

1♠ ?

2♥

3♥*

Pass

* – Game forcing with spade support.

3NT – shortness, lack of positive deviation in strength. 4♣/♦/♥ – shortness in the suit bid, positive deviation in strength.

W

N

E

S

1♠ 3NT ?

2♥ Pass

3♥* 4♣**

Pass Pass

4♦ 4♥ 4♠

* – Game forcing with spade support. ** – Waiting.

– shortness in diamonds; – shortness in hearts; – shortness in clubs.

The advantage of this convention is that it sticks to the camouflage principle: with an average hand partner will not ask for shortness, but will simply bid 4♠. The drawback – it is not possible to play 3NT. The following example illustrates the complexity of hand evaluation. W ♠ A Q 10 8 6 ♥ KJ7 ♦ AJ82 ♣ 6

E1 ♠ K 75 2 ♥ Q4 ♦ KQ9 ♣ A 10 4 3

E2 ♠ K J 7 5 ♥ 10 9 ♦ KQ9 ♣ A 10 4 2

E3 ♠ K J7 5 ♥ 432 ♦ KQ9 ♣ A K 4

The West hand is difficult to assess due to the uncertain value of heart honors. They would gain dramatically if supported by an honor in partner’s hand – the queen or ace. E1 and E2 are weaker than E3 in terms of HCP, but they fit the opener’s shape and values better, making slam an excellent contract. With E3, despite its strength, slam is practically doomed.

14

1. Hand Evaluation

W

N

E

S

1♠ 4♣ 4 ♥

2♥ Pass Pass

3 ♥ 4 ♦ ?

Pass Pass

Holding E1, responder is fond of every possible opener’s hand, i.e. A Q 10 8 6 4 ♥ K 5 2 ♦ A J 10 ♣ 6 ♠

♠ K

N W

E S

752 ♥ Q4 ♦ K Q 9 ♣ A 10 4 3

♥Q

solves the heart problem, so it’s time for Blackwood. Two key cards with the trump queen will take us to the t he six level.

With E2: A Q 10 8 6 ♥ K J 7 ♦ A J8 2 ♣ 6 ♠

♠ K

N W

E S

A slam is a great contract owing to the depend on the 2–2 trump break.

J75 ♥ 10 9 ♦ K Q 9 ♣ A 10 4 2 ♥10.

Without this card it would

The following opener’s hands: W1

A 10 6 4 3 2 ♥ A 7 5 ♦ A8 2 ♣ 6 ♠

W2

♠

♥ ♦ ♣

A 10 6 4 3 2 N A7 W A J3 2 S 6

E E

K J7 5 ♥ 10 9 ♦ K Q 9 ♣ A 10 4 2 ♠

guarantee a decent small and grand slam, respectively. As the above analysis indicates, the problems are plentiful and they require some intelligent bidding. It would not be possible to bid these hands accurately, had the information on club shortness not been passed.

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1.4.

B IDDING AFTER OPPONENT’ S DOUBLE

Opponent’s double after our side had committed itself to game makes things easier for us. We can build two separate bidding dimensions. The first one, opened by a direct bid following the double, includes hands with no significant positive deviations. The other, created by a pass after the double, includes hands with positive deviation in strength. Why is that? Because this concept is in agreement with the general rule applying to game-forcing auctions: the stronger one is, the slower you proceed. Let’s take the West seat.

W

N

E

S

1♠ ?

2♥

3♥*

Dbl.**

* **

– Game forcing with spade support. – No heart values.

Pass Rdbl. 3♠ 3NT 4♣ 4♦

– – – – – –

4♥ 4♠

the strongest call. in such circumstances usually shows the ace of hearts. denies shortness; “I am interested, but slightly nervous”; to play; shortness in clubs, no significant positive deviation in strength; shortness in diamonds, no significant positive deviation in strength; – shortness in hearts, no significant positive deviation in strength; – sub-minimum.

W

N

E

S

1♠ Pass

2♥ Pass

3 ♥ ?

Dbl.

Rdbl. 3♠

– usually shows the heart ace; – “Please describe your hand, partner”.

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1. Hand Evaluation

W

N

E

S

1♠ Pass ?

2♥ Pass

3♥* 3 ♠

Dbl. Pass

3NT 4♣ 4♦ 4♥

– – – –

no shortness, positive deviation in strength; shortness in clubs, positive deviation in strength; shortness in diamonds, positive deviation in strength; shortness in hearts, positive deviation in strength.

17


B IDDING TEST Sitting West, choose your call after:

W

N

E

S

1♠ ?

2♥

3♥*

Dbl.**

* **

– Game forcing with spade support. – No heart values.

with the following hands. 1) ♠ A Q 10 8 6 ♥ K J 7 ♦ A J8 2 ♣ 6

2) ♠ A 10 9 6 5 ♥ 6 ♦ 7 5 2 ♣ A K 6 2

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

5) ♠ A K J 10 8 3 ♥ 62 ♦ Q J4 3 ♣ 8

6) ♠ KQ765 ♥ — ♦ AQ763 ♣ 4 3 2

7) ♠ AJ832 ♥ J 10 8 2 ♦ K Q 8 ♣ 4

8) ♠ Q J 10 6 2 ♥ 7 5 3 ♦ 7 ♣ A K J 10

9) ♠ K J 10 7 6 2 ♥ 75 ♦ A K 4 ♣ K Q

10) ♠ A Q 10 6 2 ♥ 7 ♦ K Q6 4 ♣ A 7 5

11) ♠ AKQ76 ♥ Q 8 2 ♦ Q 10 6 ♣ 32

12) ♠ J 8 65 2 ♥ Q J 2 ♦ A K 8 ♣ J 10

13) ♠ Q 10 6 3 2 ♥ – ♦ K Q 10 6 5 ♣ K J 9

14) ♠ A K 10 3 2 ♥ A 10 8 ♦ J 54 3 ♣ 2

15) ♠ KQJ65 ♥ 5 ♦ A KQ 4 ♣ 7 6 2

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3) K Q 10 8 3 75 K Q6 2 Q6

4) ♠ J 10 8 6 2 ♥ A Q 6 ♦ A J 8 ♣ 75

1. Hand Evaluation

SOLUTIONS 1) ♠ A Q 10 ♥ K J 7 ♦ A J8 2 ♣ 6

86

The opponent’s double solves some of our problems. We pass, showing positive deviation in strength and no heart ace. We would be happy to hear partner redouble, but instead he bids 3 ♠, leading to:

W

N

E

S

1♠ Pass 4♣ 4♥

2♥ Pass Pass

3 ♥ 3 ♠ 4 ♦

Dbl. Pass Pass

4♣ – shortness; 4♥ – ♥ K. 2) ♠ A 10 9 6 ♥ 6 ♦ 7 5 2 ♣ A K 6 2

5

We bid 4♥ directly, showing shortness, minimum HCP, positive deviation in shape.

3) ♠ K Q 10 8 ♥ 75 ♦ K Q6 2 ♣ Q 6

3

4♠ – weak hand with no shortness.

4) ♠ J 10 8 ♥ A Q 6 ♦ A J 8 ♣ 7 5

62

3NT – a suggestion of contract.

5) ♠ A K J 10 ♥ 62 ♦ Q J4 3 ♣ 8

83

A direct 4♣ – shortness and little more.

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6) ♠ KQ7 ♥ — ♦ AQ7 ♣ 4 3 2

65

4♥, though passing after partner’s negative 4 ♠ will not be clear-cut.

63

W

N

E

S

1♠ Pass 4♥

2♥ Pass

3♥* 3 ♠

Dbl.** Pass

7) ♠ AJ832 ♥ J 10 8 2 ♦ K Q 8 ♣ 4

4♣, close to super-negative 4♠.

8) ♠ Q J 10 6 2 ♥ 7 5 3 ♦ 7 ♣ A K J 10

4♦.

9) ♠ K J 10 7 ♥ 75 ♦ A K 4 ♣ K Q

62

Pass (indicative of strength) and after partner’s 3♠ – 3NT, denying shortness.

10) ♠ A ♥ 7 ♦ K ♣ A

Q 10 6 2 Q6 4 75

Pass, and then 4♥ (after partner’s 3♠), showing heart shortness and positive deviation in strength. st rength.

20

1. Hand Evaluation

11) ♠ AKQ ♥ Q 8 2 ♦ Q 10 6 ♣ 3 2

76

A borderline case between 4♠ and 3NT.

12) ♠ Q865 ♥ Q J 2 ♦ A K 8 ♣ J 10

2

3NT – a suggestion to play it there.

13) ♠ Q 10 6 3 2 ♥ — ♦ K Q 10 6 5 ♣ K J 9

4♥.

14) ♠ A K 10 ♥ A 10 8 ♦ J 54 3 ♣ 2

32

Redouble (♥ A) and then 4♣ (after 3♠).

W

N

E

1♠ Rdbl. 4♣ 4 ♠

2♥ 3♥* Pass 3 ♠ Pass 4 ♦ Pass...

S Dbl.** Pass Pass

15) ♠ KQJ65 ♥ 5 ♦ A KQ 4 ♣ 7 6 2

Pass, and then 4♥ – heart shortness, positive deviation in strength.

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1.5.

AND ND EVALUA EVAL UATION TION AND FURTHER H A BIDDING AFTER A SPLINTER

We will now base our analysis on some examples. How would you rank your hand on the 0 to 10 scale? What would you bid after:

1♠ 2♠ ?

— 2♦ — 4♣

(splinter)

with the following hands: 1) ♠ AQ653 ♥ A J 3 ♦ 7 ♣ J 10 9 3

2) ♠ J 10 9 6 3 ♥ AK ♦ 74 ♣ A 10 8 2

3) ♠ Q8652 ♥ 7 6 4 ♦ AQ ♣ K J 10

4) ♠ AKQ75 ♥ 7 3 2 ♦ J 10 8 ♣ Q8

5) ♠ KQJ32 ♥ Q 8 5 ♦ 7 6 2 ♣ A 10

6) ♠ KJ854 ♥ AQ ♦ 74 ♣ Q J 6 2

7) ♠ K 10 8 3 2 ♥ A 7 3 ♦ K4 ♣ Q 10 3

8) ♠ A Q J 10 3 ♥ 74 ♦ 9 4 2 ♣ K Q 5

9) ♠ A K 10 6 5 ♥ K 8 3 ♦ J 8 2 ♣ 7 5

10) ♠ 10 8 6 5 2 ♥ AK ♦ K4 ♣ Q 7 6 5

11) ♠ K Q 10 6 3 2 ♥ A Q 6 ♦ 7 ♣ J 10 8

12) ♠ AKJ653 ♥ 8 ♦ 7 5 4 ♣ A 10 3

13) ♠ AJ652 ♥ A 6 5 ♦ A2 ♣ 7 3 2

14) ♠ A Q J 10 5 ♥ 72 ♦ Q8 ♣ Q 10 7 6

15) K8532 Q6 7 A Q 10 6 5

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

22

1. Hand Evaluation

1) ♠ AQ65 ♥ A J 3 ♦ 7 ♣ J 10 9 3

A) 1♠ 2♠ 4♦ 4♠

— — — —

3

2♦ 4♣ 4♥ 5♥

When I gave this problem to the panel of good players, I received an amazing variety of of answers, ranging from negative to Blackwood. Negative is, of course, wrong, and Blackwood is too hasty. We have decent trumps, good honor distribution, two stoppers and four clubs (potential three ruffing tricks) but minimum strength. B) 1♠ 2♠ 4♦

— 2♦ — 4♣ — 4♠

In sequence A) I rank my hand five, which means cue-bidding below the game level (3–5 range). If partner makes one more slam try, we will reach a slam. In sequence B) partner, even with a nice hand like: ♠ K x x x ♥ x x x ♦ A K Q J x ♣ x would be afraid to bid any further. To dispel his fears I take a risk and bid 5 ♥ (ranking six). 2) ♠ J 10 9 6 3 ♥ AK ♦ 74 ♣ A 10 8 2

1♠ — 2 ♦ 2 ♠ — 4♣ 4♥ — 4 ♠ Pass

Weak trumps, but the J-10-9 sequence may be of value. There are lots of controls (A=2 controls, K=1 control), but they are poorly located. Three potential club ruffs in dummy. Minimum strength. Ranking five.

If, however, partner bids 5 ♣ (void) instead of 4 ♠, I will give him a chance by showing first round control in hearts. If he bids 5 ♦ – I will commit our side to slam.

23


3) ♠ Q865 ♥ 7 6 4 ♦ AQ ♣ K J 10

1♠ 2♠ 4♠ 5♦ 5♠

— — — —

2

2♦ 4♣ 5♣ 5♥

Wasted values in clubs, feeble trumps, good diamonds. Overall – one, meaning I will have second thoughts about a slam only when partner goes to the five level.

(void)

4) ♠ AKQ ♥ 7 3 2 ♦ J 10 8 ♣ Q 8

75

Exceptionally strong trumps, but nothing more. Ranking two. I am going to bid slam after more encouraging move from partner. An optimist would rank this hand three and bluff with a diamond cuebid.

5) ♠ KQJ ♥ Q 8 5 ♦ 7 6 2 ♣ A 10

32

The trumps look promisingly but the three small diamonds are a menace. Once again, a pessimist would give this hand two, an optimist three. If you are among the latter, a pseudo cue-bid in hearts is in order this time.

54

Acceptable trumps, nice holding in hearts, plenty of clubs, but negative deviation in strength ( ♣ Q-J do not count). Ranking – same as above.

6) ♠ KJ8 ♥ AQ ♦ 74 ♣ Q J 6

2

24

1. Hand Evaluation

7) ♠ K 10 8 ♥ A 7 3 ♦ K4 ♣ Q 10 3

32

1♠ 2♠ 4♦ 4♠ ?

2♦ 4♣ 4♥ 5♦

— — — —

Negative deviation in strength. On the plus plus side: a lot of controls, good distribution of honors and ♠10 may prove useful. Preliminary ranking ranking falls into 3–5 range, so the hand is worth a cue-bid.

Now what?

To find the answer, we have to employ plastic valuation. Here are some minimum responder’s hands: a)

A 75 4 ♥ K 8 6 ♦ AQ653 ♣ 5 ♠

b) ♠ A 7 4 ♥ K 8 5 ♦ A Q 10 9 7 6 ♣ 5

c) ♠ Q 7 5 4 ♥ K Q 5 ♦ A Q 10 9 7 ♣ 6

With this sort of hand the bidding would, however, terminate at the four level. To move forward, responder needed one more working honor. A)

B)

A 75 4 ♥ K Q J ♦ AQ653 ♣ 7 ♠

A Q6 4 ♥ K J 5 ♦ A J 10 6 5 ♣ 8 ♠

C) ♠ A Q 9 6 ♥ K Q 10 ♦ A 10 9 7 3 ♣ 3

A) After our 5 ♥ partner will sign-off in 5♠. B) After 5♥ partner will bid slam. C) The most difficult of the three. Partner Partner should assume that holding ♦ K x x we would devalue our hand rather than tempting him with another cue-bid.

25


K 10 8 3 2 ♥ A 7 3 ♦ K 4 2 ♣ J 10 ♠

W

A Q9 6 ♥ K Q 10 ♦ A 10 9 7 3 ♣ 3 ♠

N E S

With the West hand we should bid discouraging 5 ♠ after 5♦. To sum up, with king-third in diamonds the hand should be ranked three, with doubleton king – four. 8) ♠ A Q J 10 ♥ 74 ♦ 9 4 2 ♣ K Q 5

3

Ranking zero. If ace and queen of trumps is enough for partner, he’s got the necessary bidding tools at his disposal, namely Blackwood followed by another asking bid.

65

Great trumps and convenient (cheap) heart cue-bid are sufficient for one more positive bid, but that is all we can afford. Ranking three.

9) ♠ A K 10 ♥ K 8 3 ♦ J 8 2 ♣ 7 5

10) ♠ 10 8 6 5 ♥ AK ♦ K4 ♣ Q 7 6 5

2

Absolutely hopeless trump suit forces us to bid negatively 4♠, although partner’s minimum hand with ♠ A-K-Q-x and ♦ A makes slam a good contract. That said, it is too t oo dangerous to encourage partner at this point, since even 5 ♠ may be too high. And yet the controls in the red suits and the four cards in clubs are a good sign. Ranking – four.

26

1. Hand Evaluation

11) ♠ K Q 10 6 ♥ A Q 6 ♦ 7 ♣ J 10 8

32

A) 1♠ — 2 ♦ 2 ♠ — 4♣ 4 ♦ — 4♥ 4NT

In spite of the minimum strength this is an exceptionally beautiful hand: it has a lovely six-card trump suit, diamond shortness and nice hearts. Ranking – nine. The hand is suitable for Blackwood, though it is still necessary to check the possibility of the club void in partner’s hand. There are two ways of doing it: B) 1♠ 2♠ 4NT 6♣

— — — =

2♦ 4♣ 5♥ “with a club void partner, please bid the grand slam!”

A heart cue-bid denies the club void, according to the priority of void rule. In sequence (A) responder with a club void should bypass a heart cue-bid and bid 5♣. Opener’s 5NT is now ace-asking. 12) ♠ AKJ6 ♥ 8 ♦ 7 5 4 ♣ A 10 3

53

1♠ — 2 ♦ 2 ♠ — 4♣ 4NT — 5 ♥ 5NT

Marvelous hand, ranking nine–ten. The only problem is the diamond holding. We can anticipate that responder may find himself in a tricky position:

– two t wo key cards without the trump queen – asking for kings

27


With the following hands: A) ♠ 10 9 7 ♥ A K 6 5 ♦ A K 10 4 2 ♣ 3

B) ♠ 8 74 2 ♥ A J 9 ♦ A K Q 10 6 ♣ 6

C) ♠ 10 8 4 ♥ A 10 8 2 ♦ AKQ82 ♣ 5

D) ♠ 10 9 7 2 ♥ A K 6 ♦ A K 10 4 2 ♣ 8

partner must respond: A) B) C) D)

6♥ 7♠ 6♠ 7♠

– – – –

two kings; plenty of tricks and an additional trump; plenty of tricks without an additional trump; two kings and an additional trump.

13) ♠ AJ65 ♥ A 6 5 ♦ A2 ♣ 7 3 2

2

a)

KQ87 ♥ Q 4 2 ♦ KQJ75 ♣ 6 ♠

Many controls (three aces), decent shape (more clubs than diamonds) and little more. Nevertheless, one must appreciate the great value of three aces. There are numerous average hands for partner that will guarantee a good slam: b) ♠ K Q 8 ♥ K 8 3 ♦ KQ9862 ♣ 8

What we need is in fact pragmatically: 1♠ 2♠ 4♦ 4NT 5♥

— — — —

♦

K and

c)

K 10 9 8 ♥ K J 8 ♦ K Q 10 5 4 ♣ 10 ♠

♠

K-Q. We can either proceed

2♦ 4♣ 4♥ 5♦ – asking for the trump queen hoping not to find partner with ♠ K Q 10 7 ♥ K Q J ♦ Q 10 9 7 6 ♣ 8. Or we could bid in a more sophisticated manner:

28

1. Hand Evaluation

1♠ 2♠ 4♦ 5♣

— 2♦ — 4♣ — 4♥ – bluffing to squeeze a diamond cue-bid out of partner, followed by 5 ♥. Since a long, laborious cue-bidding sequence suggests uneasiness about the trump suit, partner should bid slam with the king and queen of trumps. The overall ranking of this hand is eight–nine – on the border of Blackwood.

14) ♠ A Q J 10 ♥ 72 ♦ Q8 ♣ Q 10 7 6

1♠ 2♠ 4♠ 5♦

5

— 2♦ — 4♣ — 5♣

Ranking one, based on remarkable trumps and ♦Q. After:

– void – let’s give partner a chance.

15) ♠ K8532 ♥ Q6 ♦ 7 ♣ A Q 10 6 5

No doubt a zero–two hand. Since I would go to slam after one more try from partner, my final ranking is two.

Now let us turn to responder’s responder’s hands. We will distinguish three ranges ranges here. I. Minimum hands a) ♠ K 6 5 ♥ K 8 5 ♦ AQ9742 ♣ 3

b) ♠ A 87 5 ♥ Q 4 2 ♦ A K 10 5 4 ♣ 7

c) ♠ A Q 10 8 ♥ J 8 7 ♦ AJ974 ♣ 5

29

d) ♠ Q 10 4 ♥ A 5 3 2 ♦ AQJ86 ♣ 6


With all hands from this range responder should not continue above game. If opener moves forward: 1♠ 2♠ 4♦ 5♣

— — — —

2♦ 4♣ 4♥ ?

responder ought to bid: A) 5 ♦ B) 5 ♠ C) 6 ♠

– giving partner a chance with something interesting (a few extra values). – reacting negatively if a splinter was all he could afford. – with two extra features yielding to partner’s urging.

II. Hands with one positive deviation e) ♠ K Q 5 ♥ K 8 5 ♦ AQJ974 ♣ 3

f) ♠ A Q 4 ♥ A K 8 5 ♦ Q J 10 8 2 ♣ 4

g) ♠ K Q 10 ♥ J 10 8 3 ♦ AKQ64 ♣ 5

h) ♠ Q 8 7 ♥ K Q 10 6 ♦ AKQ86 ♣ 5

With all hands in this range responder should keep bidding to the five level, provided, of course, that opener reacts favorably to the club shortness with a four level cue-bid. Sometimes even Blackwood is appropriate. 1♠ 2♠ 4♦ 4♠

— 2♦ — 4♣ — 4♥ – ?

– and the bidding goes on.

30

1. Hand Evaluation

III. Hands with at least two positive deviations i) ♠ K Q 5 ♥ A Q 8 5 ♦ A Q 10 9 7 ♣ 3 A) 1♠ 2♠ 4♦ 4♠

— — — —

j) ♠ A Q7 6 ♥ K Q 3 ♦ AK543 ♣ 7

k) ♠ A Q 10 8 ♥ A K 8 ♦ A 10 8 6 5 ♣ 5 B) 1♠ 2♠ 4♠

2♦ 4♣ 4♥ ?

l) ♠ K J 3 ♥ A K 3 2 ♦ AQJ86 ♣ 8

— 2♦ — 4♣ — ?

A) After receiving positive signal from partner, slam is now certain and the possibility of a grand slam should be carefully explored. B) Even a direct negative of 4♠ should not discourage us from climbing to the five level. How would you evaluate your hand on the 0–10 scale?

What will you bid after: 1NT — 2♣ 2 ♥ — 3 ♠ ?

(splinter)

1NT – 15-17 1) ♠ A6 ♥ K 8 4 2 ♦ K Q 10 6 ♣ K 6 4

2) ♠ A Q 4 ♥ A K 8 5 ♦ Q J 10 8 ♣ 43

3) ♠ K Q 10 ♥ J 10 8 3 ♦ A K6 4 ♣ K5

31

4) ♠ Q 8 7 ♥ K Q 10 6 ♦ A K8 6 ♣ K5


5) ♠ 8 7 2 ♥ Q 8 7 4 ♦ A K 4 ♣ K Q J

6) ♠ J 10 8 ♥ Q J 10 8 ♦ K J 10 4 ♣ AK

7) ♠ A 5 4 ♥ J 4 3 2 ♦ K Q 6 ♣ K Q 5

8) ♠ K 6 5 ♥ A K J 10 ♦ A 10 8 2 ♣ J 3

9) ♠ 10 9 6 ♥ A Q J 2 ♦ A K 10 6 ♣ J2

10) ♠ A J 6 ♥ 10 4 3 2 ♦ A K 10 8 ♣ KQ

Before we go on we need to determine what 3NT would mean in this context. A) To play – impractical (too little frequency). frequency). B) Weak trumps trumps – a useful piece piece of information. C) “I am interested, but but nervous”, nervous”, i.e. hands hands with 3–5 ranking – no doubt makes life easier. D) Waiting, an attempt to properly time ensuing cue-bidding. I heartily recommend this approach, as it helps solve many difficult problems. In order to adequately assess the value of our hand, time and again we must apply plastic valuation. Let it be agreed that minimum strength for a splinter is 12–13 HCP, textbook shape being 1–4–4–4. With a spade void instead of singleton, a splinter can be bid on no less than t han 10 HCP. 1NT — 2♣ 2 ♥ — 3 ♠ ?

(splinter)

32

1. Hand Evaluation

1) ♠ A6 ♥ K 8 4 2 ♦ K Q 10 ♣ K 6 4

W

6

64 ♥ K 8 4 2 ♦ K Q 10 6 ♣ K6

3NT – preparing a well-timed cue-bid sequence. Minimum strength and poor shape on the minus side, nice, appropriately distributed honors on the plus side. Note that moving one small club to spades would reduce the whole problem to the t he number of key-cards in partner’s hand.

♠ A

E1

N W

E S

7 ♥ A Q 9 6 ♦ J 87 2 ♣ A J 7 5 ♠

E2

9 ♥ A Q 9 6 ♦ A 87 2 ♣ A 10 4 2 ♠

E1: A two key cards and the queen of trumps response to Blackwood is sufficient for the slam. E2: A three key cards response, and then a positive response to queenasking bid will take us all the way to the grand slam.

With hand 1) however, Blackwood would be premature, bearing in mind our dubious club holding. The problem demands a subtle discourse between partners, not mechanical conventions. The 3NT bid in fact steers partner into a club cue-bid, indicating opener’s interest in this suit. 1NT — 2♣ 2♥ — 3 ♠ 3NT — 4 ♦ ?

33


Should the lack of club cue-bid discourage us? Not at all: we evaluate this hand six to eight, which means we want to go to the five level regardless of partner’s bid. Note that after our 4♥ partner would give up with: E

7 ♥ A Q 9 6 ♦ A 87 2 ♣ Q J 7 5 ♠

and an excellent slam would be missed. 1NT 2♥ 3NT 4♠ 5♦

— — — —

2♣ 3♠ 4♦ 5♣

The 4♠ cue-bid confirms our curiosity about clubs. Having denied the ace or king of clubs before, partner may now show third-round control. After 5♣ we bid 5♦: as usual, continuing cue-bidding after all stoppers had been located warns about the quality of the trump suit. Thus we shared our anxieties and problems with partner. 2) ♠ A Q 4 ♥ A K 8 5 ♦ Q J 10 8 ♣ 4 3

E

We must not yield to the first negative impression caused by the poor location of honors. The shape is promising (three spades and two clubs) and the diamond sequence is invaluable. We need from partner as little as:

6 ♥ J 10 9 4 ♦ A 97 2 ♣ A K 7 5 ♠

to make slam a very good contract.

34

1. Hand Evaluation

1NT — 2♣ 2♥ — 3 ♠ 3NT — 4♣ ? 3NT proves its usefulness here, since the lack of a club cue-bid would thwart slam chances right away: ♠ A

Q4 ♥ A K 8 5 ♦ Q J 10 8 ♣ 43

W

6 ♥ Q J 10 4 ♦ A K9 7 ♣ Q J 10 7 ♠

N E S

Much as we are tempted to bid Blackwood directly after 4 ♣, we run the risk of finding partner with the worst possible hand: ♠ A

Q4 ♥ A K 8 5 ♦ Q J 10 8 ♣ 43

W

6 ♥ Q J 10 4 ♦ 9 74 2 ♣ A K Q 10 ♠

N E S

It is equally risky to bid 4♠, denying diamond control, since partner’s negative 5♥ would lay bare our diamond weakness and expose us to potentially killing lead (two diamond tricks and a ruff). Most dangerous, however, is the innocent-looking bid of 4 ♥, as it may result in missing a simple slam. Thus, we cannot avoid the element of uncertainty involved in all the potential actions. Of all evils, I vote for the co-operative bid of 4 ♠. My ranking for this hand is six. 3) ♠ K Q 10 ♥ J 10 8 3 ♦ A K6 4 ♣ K 5

This time we have to react negatively with an immediate 4♥. Ranking – two. Partner must try once again to convince us to accept slam.

35


4) ♠ Q 8 7 ♥ K Q 10 6 ♦ A K8 6 ♣ K 5

Nice shape, gorgeous trumps, trumps, overall – nine–ten.

1NT — 2♣ 2♥ — 3 ♠ 4♣ — 4 ♥ 4NT The 4♣ cue-bid is necessary to check the possibility of a void in spades. 5) ♠ 8 7 2 ♥ Q 8 7 4 ♦ A K 4 ♣ K Q J

Ranking nine, and again Blackwood is justified.

1NT — 2♣ 2♥ — 3 ♠ 4♣ — 4 ♥ 4NT We have catered for a possible spade void; now three key cards out of five are enough for a slam. Is there any risk involved? E

6 ♥ A K J 10 ♦ 87532 ♣ A 10 9 ♠

Yes, this hand makes the slam hopeless. How can it be avoided? Frankly, I don’t know.

36

1. Hand Evaluation

6) ♠ J 10 6 ♥ Q J 10 ♦ K J 10 ♣ A K

8 4

Terrific trumps, diamond sequence, good shape (three spades, two clubs).

1NT — 2♣ 2♥ — 3 ♠ 4♣ — 4 ♥ 4NT A three t hree key cards response takes us to slam. In the worst case we will have to hunt for ♦Q. Ranking: nine–ten. 7) ♠ A 5 4 ♥ J 4 3 2 ♦ K Q 6 ♣ K Q 5

The Achilles heel of the hand is the trump suit. The rest looks all right. Ranking: five.

1NT — 2♣ 2♥ — 3 ♠ 4♣ — 4 ♦ 4♥ With a hand that still looks l ooks slammish partner should take one more step. E

7 ♥ A K Q 6 ♦ A 98 2 ♣ J 6 4 2 ♠

East’s correct bid now is 5 ♥ – solid trumps, diamond cue-bid and nothing more. With that strong a trump suit responder must anticipate opener’s reservations about further bidding caused by weak trumps.

37


8) ♠ K 6 5 ♥ A K J 10 ♦ A 10 8 2 ♣ J 3

1NT 2♥ 3NT 4♦ ?

— — — —

2♣ 3♠ 4♣ 4♥

Wonderful trumps, decent shape, but poor honor distribution. 3NT portrayed interest in clubs. Let’s Let ’s switch swit ch on our imagination. With partner’s minimum hand: ♠ K

65 ♥ A K J 10 ♦ A 10 8 2 ♣ J3

2 ♥ Q 9 8 2 ♦ K 96 3 ♣ A K 10 5 ♠

N W

E S

a slam is rather ugly. Anything extra, however: W

♠ K

65 ♥ A K J 10 ♦ A 10 8 2 ♣ J3

E1

N W

E S

2 ♥ Q 9 8 2 ♦ K 96 3 ♣ A K 10 5 ♠

E2

2 ♥ Q 9 8 2 ♦ K 96 3 ♣ A K Q 5 ♠

will make slam a beauty. Ranking six, though, admittedly, it seemed three– four at the first sight.

38

1. Hand Evaluation

Note that moving one spade to clubs changes the hand’s value drastically. For a slam we now need to find partner with: K6 ♥ A K J 10 ♦ A 10 8 2 ♣ J 6 3 ♠

W

2 ♥ Q 9 8 2 ♦ K Q9 2 ♣ A K Q 2 ♠

N E S

i.e. full positive deviation in strength. 9) ♠ 10 9 6 ♥ A Q J 2 ♦ A K 10 6 ♣ J 5

1NT — 2♣ 2♥ — 3 ♠ 3NT — 4 ♠ ? After the waiting bid of 3NT partner shows a void with 4 ♠. Remember, this call does not exclude club control ( the priority of void rule). How do we check the grand slam chances? We must not forget that a void might have incited partner to jump on subminimum values. What next? Here is one possibility: 4NT (Blackwood) — 5 ♥ (two key cards, no ♥ Q) 5 ♠ (king-asking) — 6 ♣ (one king) 6 ♦ (what about third-round control in diamonds?) A more sophisticated way would be: 1NT — 2♣ 2♥ — 3 ♠ 3NT — 4 ♠ 5♠

39


5♠ shows 15–16 HCP outside of spades and invites grand slam. Why not 16–17 HCP? Because with maximum strength and no wasted values in spades we would react immediately: 1NT — 2♣ 2♥ — 3 ♠ 4♠ putting partner in charge. With 12–14 12–14 HCP he will go on to the grand slam: a)

b)

c)

— ♥ K 10 3 2 ♦ Q8753 ♣ A K Q 6

— ♥ K 9 8 6 ♦ 87532 ♣ A K Q 8

— ♥ K 7 5 4 ♦ J 84 2 ♣ A K Q 9 6

♠

♠

♠

He will be in a position to visualize ♦ AK, ♥ AQ and either ♦ Q or two or three jacks in opener’s hand. Ranking of the West hand: nine–ten. 10) ♠ A J 6 ♥ 10 4 3 2 ♦ A K 10 8 ♣ K Q

1NT 2♥ 3NT 4♦ ?

— — — —

2♣ 3♠ 4♣ 4♥

We can choose between two paths: a) 5 ♥ – invitation, partner should accept with at least two honors out of the top three. b) Blackwood – three key cards (out of five) or two key cards with the trump queen will make a slam tolerable. Ranking eight.

40

1. Hand Evaluation

1.6.

AND ND EVALUA EVAL UATION TION AFTER H A NON-SPLINTER SHORTNESS BID

Here is another sequence we will discuss, especially with regard to the honor distribution:

W

N

E

S

1♣ 3♥

Pass Pass

2 ♥ 3♠*

Pass * – spade shortness.

Ideally, responder will have 13+ HCP and 1–6–3–3. Why should 3 ♠ show shortness, you may ask. I suggest the following pattern: 1♣ 3♥

— 2♥ — ? 3♠ 3NT 4♣ 4♦

– – – –

spade shortness lack of shortness club shortness diamond shortness

With balanced distribution (no shortness) responder should bid 3NT, which is not to play, but instead invites opener’s cue-bid and does not deny spade control.

41


Evaluate the following hands on the 0–10 scale and choose your call after:

1♣ 3♥ ?

— 2♥ — 3♠

(spade shortness)

1) ♠ A K J 6 ♥ K 8 5 ♦ J 4 2 ♣ K 10 6

2) ♠ J 10 6 2 ♥ Q 6 3 ♦ K5 ♣ A K 8 6

3) ♠ 7 6 4 ♥ K 8 6 ♦ A 7 2 ♣ A K 5 4

5) ♠ K 6 3 ♥ K 8 5 2 ♦ A 6 3 ♣ K J 4

6) ♠ A 10 8 ♥ J 10 3 ♦ K Q 5 ♣ Q 8 7 2

7) ♠ A J 6 ♥ K 8 3 ♦ A J8 2 ♣ 6 4 2

8) ♠ A 7 5 ♥ 5 4 2 ♦ Q J 4 ♣ K Q 10 6

9) ♠ 8 7 5 ♥ 10 9 8 ♦ A KQ 6 ♣ K 4 3

10) ♠ 8 7 3 2 ♥ A 6 5 ♦ Q J 10 5 ♣ KQ

4) ♠ Q 10 6 4 ♥ Q 8 7 2 ♦ A6 ♣ K Q 5

Once again, we must decide on the meaning of opener’s 3NT rebid. Is it: a)

to play; or

b) an attempt to adequately time the cue-bids. As before, I vote for the t he second option.

42

1. Hand Evaluation

1) ♠ A KJ ♥ K 8 5 ♦ J 4 2 ♣ J 10 6

6

These cards are worth between 0 and 2. This is one of the hands where 3NT as a suggestion of contract would actually be useful. Since it is not available, however, we must react negatively, returning to 4 ♥.

2

This time a “waiting” 3NT will wil l be inevitable. Why?

2) ♠ J 10 6 ♥ Q 6 3 ♦ K5 ♣ A K 8

6

1♣ — 2 ♥ 3♥ — 3 ♠ 3NT — 4 ♦ ? Which is the danger suit? Clubs, naturally. Here is an example partner’s hand. J 10 6 2 ♥ Q 6 3 ♦ K5 ♣ A K 8 6 ♠

W

6 ♥ A K J 10 5 4 ♦ A Q J ♣ 9 5 3 ♠

N E S

How do we deal with this problem? The first step has already been made: thanks to waiting 3NT partner denied first or second-round control in clubs. Now we bluff with a spade cue-bid to maneuver partner into showing a third–round control in clubs, if he has it. 1♣ — 2 ♥ 3♥ — 3 ♠ 3NT — 4 ♦ 4♠

43


Examples of partner’s positive hands: W

♠ J

10 6 2 ♥ Q 6 3 ♦ K5 ♣ A K 8 6

E1

N W

E S

E2 6 ♠ ♥ A K J 10 5 3 ♥ ♦ A J 8 ♦ ♣ Q 7 5 ♣ ♠

6 A K J 10 5 3 2 A43 75

We are using the idea of a “steered” cue-bid. Commander-in-chief of the bidding is no doubt the opener who knows much more about responder’s hand than vice versa. His objective at this stage is to obtain as much useful information as possible from the responder in order to find the optimum contract. 3) ♠ 7 6 4 ♥ K 8 6 ♦ A 5 2 ♣ A K 6

1♣ 3♥ 3NT 4♠ ?

— — — —

4

A similar problem. Our task is, once again, to check whether partner has a third-round control in clubs. What about diamonds? Well, we hope to dispose of a losing diamond on the good club.

2♥ 3♠ 4♦ 5♣

The following partner’s hand makes the slam an a n odds-against contract: ♠ 7

64 ♥ K 8 6 ♦ A 5 2 ♣ A K 6 4

W

5 ♥ A Q J 10 7 5 ♦ K 6 4 ♣ Q 8 7 ♠

N E S

It’s only 12 HCP though. In most cases we can count on an additional jack or two.

44

1. Hand Evaluation

4) ♠ Q 10 6 4 ♥ Q 8 7 2 ♦ A6 ♣ K Q 5

1♣ 3♥ 4♣ ?

— 2♥ — 3♠ — 4♦

At first glance our estimation of this hand’s worth is negative, due to the wasted ♠Q. But we must not overlook the value of its nice shape. Perhaps good bidding technique will solve all the problems. problems. Since a diamond control in partner’s hand is the key value here, 3NT would be counterproductive – it would not arrange the cue-bidding sequence properly.

It’s time for Blackwood. Three key cards (out of five) are enough for a slam. If the response is 5♥ – two key cards – we will pass. If partner by passes a diamond cue-bid and denies a spade void, the evaluation of our hand will drop from nine–ten (Blackwood) to zero. 1♣ 3♥ 4♣ 5♣

— 2♥ — 3♠ — 4♠

Finally, when responder shows a void, the opener – still in charge – keeps inquiring. With 5♣ he steers partner to the diamond cue-bid, ♦ K being decisive for our estimation of grand slam chances. After 5 ♦ we bid 5NT (Blackwood) to determine the level of the contract. 5) ♠ K 6 3 ♥ K 8 5 ♦ A 6 3 ♣ K J 4

1♣ 3♥ 4♣ ?

2

Poor shape and honor location, ♠ K worth only half of its nominal value. Against that, we have lots of controls. The ranking is in the three–five zone.

— 2♥ — 3♠ — 4♦

45


It’s all clearing up. To move on, partner must have full positive deviation in strength, for example: ♠ K

63 ♥ K 8 5 2 ♦ A 6 3 ♣ K J 4

W

5 ♥ A Q J 10 6 3 ♦ K Q 5 ♣ A 3 2 ♠

N E S

A small slam depends on either of two honors ( ♠ A or ♣ Q) being onside. If the queen were in clubs instead of diamonds, the slam would be a 50% contract. The above analysis suggests ranking five: if partner goes on over the game level, we will get to the slam. 6) ♠ A 10 8 ♥ J 10 3 ♦ K Q 5 ♣ Q 8 7 2

10 8 ♥ J 10 3 ♦ K Q 5 ♣ Q 8 7 2

Initially the hand looks promising. It’s only when we activate our plastic valuation that we realize that even a very strong responder’s hand:

♠ A

W

6 ♥ A K Q 9 8 7 ♦ A J 8 ♣ K 4 3 ♠

N E S

does not guarantee a worthwhile slam. My suggested ranking is three – we give partner a chance, but nothing more. 1♣ — 2 ♥ 3♥ — 3 ♠ 3NT — 4♣ 4♦ Why do we start from 3NT? To show our anxiety about clubs. Our 4 ♦ cue bid denies club control and encourages partner to bid further if he has that suit stopped.

46

1. Hand Evaluation

7) ♠ A J 6 ♥ K 8 3 ♦ A J8 2 ♣ 6 4 2

1♣ 3♥ 3NT 4♦

Ranking between three and five. In other words: we keep the conversation alive only up to the game level.

— 2♥ — 3♠ — 4♣ — ?

Similarly, we begin with 3NT to express the uncertainty about clubs. If partner bids 4♥ – we will pass. If he goes higher, it means he has at least a single positive deviation in strength (15+ HCP): 1)

2)

3)

5 ♥ A Q J 9 6 5 ♦ K Q 7 ♣ A 8 7

7 ♥ A Q 10 9 4 2 ♦ Q 7 3 ♣ A K 5

10 ♥ A Q J 9 7 5 ♦ K 10 3 ♣ A Q 3

♠

♠

♠

1) Slam is a laydown. 2) A borderline slam; the nine of diamonds diamonds would would boost its chances chances and the ten would guarantee it. 3) A very good slam, thanks to ♦ 10. As the above analysis reveals, the hand is worth around five. 8) ♠ A 7 5 ♥ 5 4 2 ♦ Q J 4 ♣ K Q 10

1♣ 3♥ 4♣ 4♥

We do not fear the clubs, but a full positive deviation in strength is needed from partner. Ranking – five. 6

— 2♥ — 3♠ — 4♦ — ?

47


9) ♠ 8 7 5 ♥ 10 9 8 ♦ A KQ ♣ K 4 3

6

A very interesting example. The hand is of minimum strength and, on the face of it, poor shape. Despite this, the good location of honors and the fourth diamond increase the value of the hand significantly. Many typical responder’s hands guarantee a good slam, i.e.:

a)

b)

c)

9 ♥ A K Q 4 3 2 ♦ J 8 5 ♣ A 8 7

3 ♥ AKJ643 ♦ 532 ♣ A Q 5

2 ♥ A K Q 6 3 2 ♦ 10 4 3 ♣ A J 8

♠

♠

♠

My ranking is between six and eight, closer to the bottom of the range. 1♣ 3♥ 4♣ 5♦

— 2♥ — 3♠ — 4♥ — ?

Partner should understand we didn’t use Blackwood for fear of the losing 5♠ response (two key cards plus trump queen).

48

1. Hand Evaluation

10) ♠ 8 73 2 ♥ A 6 5 ♦ Q J 10 4 ♣ K Q

Our first estimation is optimistic: great honor location, nice fit, the diamond sequence. It’s only when we try to imagine a hand for partner that will be suitable for a slam that our enthusiasm withers away.

8 73 2 ♥ A 6 5 ♦ Q J 10 5 ♣ KQ ♠

W

9 ♥ K Q J 9 7 2 ♦ A K 5 ♣ A 3 2 ♠

N E S

The reason is, perhaps, that the ♣ Q is worthless. Ranking – four. 1♣ 3♥ 4♣ 4♥ 5♦

— — — —

2♥ 3♠ 4♦ 5♣

Let’s give partner a chance.

49


1.7

AND ND EVALUA EVAL UATION TION AFTER FIT – BUT NO H A SHORTNESS – HAS BEEN B EEN FOUND FOUND

We shall now turn to the following sequence:

W

N

E

S

1NT (12–14) 2♠

Pass Pass

2 ♣ 3♥*

Pass * – spade slam invitation, no shortness, 17+ HCP

What can we do?

3♠ 3NT 4♣/4♦/4♥ 4♠

– – – –

“I am interested, but nervous…” suggestion of contract (to play) cue-bid, positive reaction “not this time”.

Evaluate the following hands on the 0–10 scale and select your call. 1)

2)

3)

♠

87532 ♥ AK ♦ Q 3 2 ♣ Q J 5

♠

A QJ 6 ♥ 7 5 4 ♦ K83 ♣ Q 7 6

K 76 5 ♥ A5 ♦ A J7 2 ♣ J 7 6

4) ♠ J 10 9 7 ♥ 82 ♦ A KQ 9 ♣ K 10 8

5)

6)

Q J 10 5 ♥ K5 ♦ A J 10 8 ♣ 7 6 4

7 64 2 ♥ A K 3 ♦ QJ ♣ Q 10 9 8

♠

♠

50

♠

1. Hand Evaluation

An A n s w ers er s 1) ♠ 8753 ♥ AK ♦ Q 3 2 ♣ Q J 5

2

1NT 2♠ 3♠ 4♥ Pass

2♣ 3♥ 4♣ 4♠

— — — —

Fifth trump is worth an additional trick. On the other hand, the trumps are weak and the honors unsatisfactory. Overall, we should give partner a chance.

This auction indicates we ranked the hand between three and five. In my opinion it’s five, which means I would have bid slam had partner moved to the five level. 2) ♠ A QJ ♥ 7 5 4 ♦ K 8 3 ♣ Q 7 6

6

The balanced shape suggests 3NT, but the weakness in hearts is a little l ittle troubling. Taking into consideration the quality of spades, however, we should opt for a suit contract. The hand lacks high spot cards. Overall – two–three. It is perfectly sane to bid negative 4 ♠ now, though an optimist would appreciate his trumps and bid encouraging 3 ♠.

3) ♠ K 76 5 ♥ A5 ♦ A J7 2 ♣ J 7 6

It’s time for enthusiastic 4 ♦ cue-bid, and if partner returns to 4♠, negative, we will cue-bid again at the five level. Ranking – seven.

4) ♠ J 10 9 7 ♥ 82 ♦ A KQ 9 ♣ K 10 8

Good shape and plenty of high cards (trump (t rump sequence). It would take a big effort from partner to stop me from bidding slam. Ranking – nine.

51


5) ♠ Q J 10 ♥ K5 ♦ A J 10 ♣ 7 6 4

5 8

The two honor sequences compensate for the subminimal strength. I rank the hand five and keep the auction alive with a 3♠ bid.

6) ♠ 7 6 4 2 ♥ A K 3 ♦ QJ ♣ Q 10 9 8

With such a weak trump suit I propose 3NT. Ranking one, meaning I will move forward if partner can afford one more try.

52

Chapter 2 BIDDING DECISIONS The process of hand evaluation leads to a bidding decision. Good decisions are, in part, a function of experience, of thousands of deals played. But can the art of decision-making in bridge simply be learned? Yes, it can. Moreover, it must be learned. First of all, we have to know our partner’s style and temperament, as well as the style and the level of aggressiveness of our opponents. In order to make a decision it is inevitable to use our imagination. If we manage to visualize three of partner’s possible hands (based on hitherto bidding): a) the favorable one, b) the average one, c) the unfavorable one we will be in a position to estimate the results of a decision which we are intuitively inclined to make, and, if need be, to correct it. We now turn to a bidding test consisting of a hundred problems, mainly from the area of competitive bidding. I hope with each one of them your ability to make successful decisions in bidding will improve.

53


Introduction Bidding decisions, and especially the ensuing postmortems, are a source of many amusing stories. Here is one of them. Many years ago a local tournament in Cracow was honored by the participation of a pair of successful rubber bridge players – Mr. Eric and Mr. Jeff. Mr. Eric was known as a “high flyer”, a nickname which had little to do with aviation. It was rather because he liked to have the last word in every auction… NS vul., dealer W.

Q5 ♥ Q4 ♦ K8 7 ♣ A K Q 10 9 8 ♠

A K 10 6 2 ♥ A 10 9 ♦ Q 10 9 2 ♣ 3 ♠

♠ J

N W

E S

98 ♥ K J 8 ♦ A J 6 ♣ J 7 5 2

♠ 7 ♥ ♦ ♣

43 76532 543 64

The auction:

W

Eric

E

Jeff

1♠ 4♠ Pass

2♣ 5♣ Pass

3 ♠ Dbl.

Pass Pass

Result: down six, –1700. Mr. Jeff: That was costly, man! Mr. Eric: keeps silent as the grave. Mr. Jeff: I said that was costly! Mr. Eric: A man with a Yarborough Yarborough should keep quiet . Mr. Jeff: But I never bid a thing! Mr. Eric: Now that would beat all! 54

2. Bidding Decisions

2.1.

A HUNDRED DEALS BIDDING TEST

In each problem you sit West. The bidding The bidding system is used (1♦/1♥/1♠ openings – 12–21 HCP; 2 ♣ – strong)

2.1.1. PROBLEMS 1–10 1)

Game all

♠ A Q5 3 ♥ Q ♦ A5 ♣ A 10 8 7

64

2)

N

E

S

— 2♣ 2♠ ?

— Pass Pass

1 ♦ 2 ♦ 3 ♦

Pass Pass Pass

Love all

♠ 7 4 2 ♥ 10 ♦ A Q 7 ♣ A K J 10

76

3) ♠ 8 ♥ AKQ ♦ K J 3 ♣ J 2

W

W

N

E

S

— 2♣ ?

— 4♠

— 4NT

1♠ Pass

E-W game

10 9 4 3

4) ♠ A J9 3 ♥ K J 10 9 7 ♦ — ♣ K 10 9

W

N

E

S

1♥ 4♥ ?

Pass Pass

2♦ 5♣

3♠ Pass

Game all

6

W

N

E

S

— ?

4♠

Pass

Pass

55


5)

E-W game

♠ 9 8 3 ♥ A8 ♦ 3 ♣ A K Q

W 10 9 8 4

6) ♠ A K ♥ A K ♦ Q ♣ J 10

7 852 43

7) ♠ A Q 4 ♥ Q ♦ A J 10 ♣ A Q 10

N

E

S

— — — ? * – gambling. E-W game

3NT*

W

N

E

S

— ?

1♥

Pass

1NT

Love all

953

8) ♠ A 10 7 2 ♥ 3 ♦ J 9 87 5 ♣ Q 10 7

9) ♠ AJ876 ♥ AQ ♦ K 10 9 3 ♣ Q 5

W

N

E

S

1♣ ? *

3♣*

3♥

3♠

– 5–5, spades and diamonds

Game all

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 3NT ?

— Pass Pass

1♥ 3♣ 4 ♦

Pass Pass Pass

Love all

W

N

E

S

— ?

3♥

3NT

Pass

56


10) ♠ K 10 8 6 3 ♥ A Q 10 7 2 ♦ K J 4 ♣ —

Game all

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 3♦* 4♣*** ? * –

— Pass Pass Pass

1♣ 2♣ 3♥** 4 ♦

Pass Pass Pass Pass

transfer to hearts, 5+ ♠ – 5+♥, positive deviation in strength; ** – accepting hearts as the trump suit; *** – club shortness.

57


My suggested solution solu tions s 1)

Game all

♠ A Q 5 3 ♥ Q ♦ A5 ♣ A 10 8 7

64

W

N

E

S

— 2♣ 2♠ ?

— Pass Pass

1 ♦ 2 ♦ 3 ♦

Pass Pass Pass

We are headed for a diamond slam. How? Partner has shown a weak hand with at least six diamonds and unwillingness to play in notrump, either because of lack of heart stopper or because the t he stopper is the ace, ace , in which case it’s better to declare a notrump contract from our side of the table. Here is what we can bid: A) 4 ♦ B) 4 ♥ C) 3 ♥ 2♣ 2♠ 3♥ 4♥

– which, in most cases, partner will raise to 5♦. – splinter. – waiting bid.

1♦ — 2♦ — 3♦ — 4♦

It remains unclear in this sequence whether 4 ♥ shows honor or shortness. From my experience, if we want to induce partner to cue-bid, it is much better to use splinter (B).

58


2)

Love all

♠ 7 4 2 ♥ 10 ♦ A Q 7 ♣ A K J 10

76

W

N

E

S

— 2♣ ?

— 4♠

— 4NT

1♠ Pass

Mysterious as it may seem, 4NT should mean, according to theory of bidding, either an invitation to small slam in clubs or huge red two-suiter. Blackwood lovers will wait years to use their cherished convention in this sequence. How do we respond? 5♣ 5♦ 5♥ 5NT

– – – –

I refuse to play the club slam. I prefer diamonds, I accept the club slam. I prefer hearts, I accept the club slam. I want to play slam in clubs or one of your your suits.

Hesitating between 5♦ and 5NT? In my opinion 5 ♦ is just fine. By accepting the club slam we show a good hand. A hand more suitable for 5NT would be: ♠ 7 4 2 ♥ — ♦ A Q 7 2 ♣ A K J 10 7 6.

3)

E-W game

♠ 8 ♥ AKQ ♦ K J 3 ♣ J 2

10 9 4 3

W

N

E

S

1♥ 4♥ ?

Pass Pass

2♦ 5♣

3♠ Pass

Whenever I discuss this problem with other players, the basic question about the meaning of 5♣ returns: is it natural or a cue-bid?

W

N

E

S

1♥ 4♥

Pass Pass

2♦ 5♥

3♠

One of the experts was of opinion that 5 ♥ forces opener to bid slam if he controls spades, while 5♣ cue-bid merely invites it. He has a point, I believe. Having said that, nonetheless, we must cater for the possibility of 5♣ being natural and bid 5 ♦. If partner corrects to 5 ♥, we will gladly raise 59


him one level. If, on the other hand, partner has the minors, a slam requires more: two aces and the trump queen. One last question to consider is this: why should partner persist with his suits after 4♥? To find the answer we must turn away from our actual hand containing the fabulous heart suit and look at the auction from partner’s perspective. The 4♥ bid was, to some extent, forced upon us by the opponents. These are some of the possible West hands: a)

b)

c)

8 ♥ A J 7 6 5 3 2 ♦ K7 ♣ A 10 8

8 ♥ A K 10 8 4 3 ♦ Q65 ♣ K Q 6

32 ♥ A Q 10 6 5 4 ♦ A6 ♣ K J 5

♠

♠

♠

If partner, holding a heart void, responds with a disciplined pass to our 4 ♥, we will regret being left in such a pathetic contract. 4)

Game all

♠ A J 9 3 ♥ K J 10 9 ♦ — ♣ K 10 9

76

W

N

E

S

— ?

4♠

Pass

Pass

We have a guess, it seems. Opposite two extreme partner’s hands, we can lose 1100 for 5 ♥ down four or make grand slam in hearts. There are two approaches: A) If in doubt – I pass. B) If in doubt doubt – I always bid (this (this one is more in harmony with with our national character). Apart from 5 ♥ and pass, some of my interlocutors offered a double. The merits of this idea depend on the interpretation of a double here. I am inclined to think that doubling openings up to 4 ♥ should rather encourage partner to bid (especially with spades), while doubling higher openings suggests passing. Pulling the double of 4 ♠ and higher openings is permissible only with shapely, constructive constructive hands.

60


So my answer to the problem is double. We will be happy to hear partner pass; if he pulls to 5♣ we will accept, while 5♦ should be corrected to 5♥.

5) ♠ 9 8 3 ♥ A8 ♦ 3 ♣ A K Q

E-W game

10 9 8 4

W

N

E

S

— ? *

—

—

3NT*

– gambling.

The winning call might well be pass. Double shows a better hand, but if it is is passed out, it may be great business. Unless dummy produces ♣ J x x x, in which case the future is uncertain. 4♣ may complicate matters since it is often used as a take-out bid with majors. This is a common error – temporarily changing the meaning of a bid depending on one’s one’s holding in the present deal. 5♣ looks a bit too straightforward, but it is the only call that invites partner’s co-operation in the bidding. To sum up, I recommend either a pass or 5 5♣.

6) ♠ A K 7 ♥ AK852 ♦ Q ♣ J 10 4 3

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— ?

1♥

Pass

1NT

Passing is obvious, though one may not exclude the possibility of 3NT being cold, with partner holding 10 HCP. Americans are very keen on such actions: opening on 10 HCP and a 1NT response on 2–3 HCP, nonvulnerable of course.

61


7)

Love all

♠ A Q 4 ♥ Q ♦ A J 10 ♣ A Q 10

953

W

N

E

S

1♣ ? *

3♣*

3♥

3♠

– 5–5, spades and diamonds

What changed since our – problematic in itself – 3NT? Spade shortness in partner’s hand is now beyond doubt. 3 ♥ was forcing, true, but it might have been based on shape rather than strength. East might have felt this is the last chance to enter the bidding. Whatever we bid, it will surely end the auction. A) Double – down one to down three, provided the opponents’ bidding makes any sense. B) 4NT – easy to make. C) 5♣ – should make. D) 6♣? – let’s use our imagination. Here are three variants of partner’s hand: Favorable ♠ 6 ♥ A K 10 6 4 2 ♦ 6 4 3 ♣ K 8 7

Average ♠ 9 ♥ AJ7532 ♦ Q6 ♣ J 6 4 2

Favorable – not far from a grand slam; Average – a small slam is the correct contract; Unfavorable – there may be problems, problems, but… The decision – 6♣.

62

Unfavorable ♠ 2 ♥ K J 10 9 8 5 ♦ Q 9 8 ♣ K 3 2


8)

Game all

♠ A 10 7 2 ♥ 3 ♦ J9875 ♣ Q 10 7

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 3NT ?

— Pass Pass

1♥ 3♣ 4 ♦

Pass Pass Pass

The key to this problem is, obviously, the understanding of a 4 ♦ bid. There are three interpretations: A) A 0–5–4–4 distribution, e.g. E

— ♥ AKJ65 ♦ A J9 6 ♣ K Q J 6 ♠

B) A 0–5–3–5 distribution, such as: E

— ♥ AKJ65 ♦ K Q 10 ♣ A J 9 8 4 ♠

C) A 3–5–0–5 distribution, i.e.: E

♠ K ♥ ♦ ♣

J9 AK865 — AK965

With hand A) most players would jump to 3 ♦ instead of 3♣, even though I can understand the club bidders. Moreover, it might be a sensible thing to pass partner’s 3NT with such a hand, in case responder has something like: K Q 10 8 ♥ 42 ♦ Q 10 4 2 ♣ 4 3 2 ♠

W

— ♥ AKJ65 ♦ AJ96 ♣ K Q J 6 ♠

N E S

63


Though, on the other hand, should West have: ♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

J 10 9 8 6 2 KQ873 A2

W

— ♥ AKJ65 ♦ AJ96 ♣ K Q J 6 ♠

N E S

the optimum spot would be 7♦. As regards the B) hand, everyone agrees that the only alternative to passing 3NT is 4♣, not 4♦. Admittedly, this may be tantamount to losing sight of a diamond fit, but it can’t be helped. Responder’s 4 ♦ after 4♣ is a cue-bid accepting clubs as the trump suit, with a hand such as: Q 10 8 5 ♥ 32 ♦ A 10 3 2 ♣ K 9 8 ♠

W

— ♥ AKJ65 ♦ KQ9 ♣ A J 7 6 4 ♠

N E S

The sequence understood as C) would mean: I offer you a choice of game contracts: in hearts, spades and clubs. c lubs. You pick, partner. A possible objection to this truly elegant concept is the cannon of natural bidding stating that prior to finding a fit a new suit is natural rather than showing shortness. All in all, our decision depends on the meaning of 4♦.

64


9)

Love all

♠ AJ876 ♥ AQ ♦ K 10 9 3 ♣ Q 5

W

N

E

S

— ?

3♥

3NT

Pass

The range of the 3NT bid is gigantic. Nevertheless, a slam is almost certain, since even opposite partner’s minimum hand it is not utterly hopeless. Minimum hand E1

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

Maximum hand E2

42 K 10 Q5 A K J 10 6 4 2

KQ ♥ K 10 ♦ AQ4 ♣ A K J 8 7 3 ♠

What is the meaning of the available calls? cal ls? 4♣ 4♦ 4♥ 4♠ 4NT 5NT

– natural slam invitation; – natural slam invitation; – heart shortness, hand suitable for a suit contract; – to play; – invitation (quantitative); – forcing, an attempt to find a minor suit fit.

Here the choice is really between 6NT, satisfying the rule of camouflage, and 5NT, likely to result in the diamond slam.

65


10)

Game all

♠ K 10 8 6 3 ♥ A Q 10 7 2 ♦ K J 4 ♣ —

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 3♦* 4♣*** ? * –

— Pass Pass Pass

1♣ 2♣ 3♥** 4 ♦

Pass Pass Pass Pass

transfer to hearts, 5+ ♠ – 5+♥, positive deviation in strength; ** – accepting hearts as the trump suit; *** – club shortness.

As his cue-bid indicates, partner finds our shortness useful. We should proceed with 5♣ – showing the void. E

A5 ♥ K J 9 6 ♦ A3 ♣ Q 10 8 7 6 ♠

This clears the way to the grand slam, which, opposite the above East hand, is a superb contract.

66


2.1.2. PROBLEMS 11–20 11)

E-W game

♠ KJ972 ♥ K ♦ Q7543 ♣ K Q

12) ♠ A2 ♥ A K Q ♦ A ♣ J 9 5

N

E

S

— 1♠ ?

— 5♥

1♦ Pass

1♥ Pass

E-W game

9542

13)

W

N

E

S

1♥ ?

Pass

2♣

3♠

Game all

♠ 75 ♥ KJ64 ♦ K 10 8 ♣ A 9

32

14)

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— 3♠

1♣ 4♣

1♠ Pass

E-W game

♠ A K 3 ♥ — ♦ J 10 9 6 ♣ A 9 7 3

52

15) ♠ A 10 9 ♥ — ♦ K Q 6 ♣ K Q 8

W

W

N

E

S

1♦ ?

Dbl.

1♠

4♥

E-W game

6 543

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 4♥** ? * – ** –

Pass 2♥ Pass

Pass 3♥* 4 ♠

Pass Pass Pass

10–11 HCP with spade support. heart shortness.

67


16) ♠ A Q J 9 ♥ AQ ♦ — ♣ A Q 6 4

Game all

32

17)

N

E

S

1♣ ?

1♦

1 ♠

Pass

E-W game

♠ A J 6 4 ♥ A 5 4 ♦ — ♣ A K Q J

10 6

18)

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

—

3♠

Love all

♠ 86 ♥ A8 ♦ K J6 4 ♣ Q 10 9 8

6

19) ♠ K 8 5 4 ♥ J 10 7 3 ♦ 2 ♣ A Q 9

W

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 4♥

— Dbl.

1♥ Pass

Love all

2

20) ♠ K Q J 3 ♥ 97643 ♦ 6 5 3 ♣ A

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

1♦ 1NT

Pass Dbl.

1♠ 2♣

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— ? * **

2♠*

4♠**

Pass

– weak two. – minor two-suiter.

68



E-W game

♠ KJ972 ♥ K ♦ Q7543 ♣ K Q

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ ?

— 5♥

1♦ Pass

1♥ Pass

We now have an opportunity to get acquainted with another type of waiting call, namely – PASS. In bidding theory it is known as forcing pass. Let’s try to grasp its mechanism. It should be agreed that in such sequence, when vulnerable against nonvulnerable opponents, East’s PASS forces West to keep bidding. The opener’s message is either: A) “I am unable to take a reasonable decision. decision. I will will accept anything anything you do”; or B) “I want to encourage encourage you to bid slam; if you double, double, I will bid again. With a weak, unattractive hand I would have discouraged you with a double”. Knowing partner’s intentions enables us to behave sensibly in a dangerous situation (with insufficient data). Partner wants us to bid and we don’t see any reason not to – so we go to 6 ♦. We have no clue if the slam is makeable (there may be a heart and a side suit loser), but neither have the opponents. If we bid it quickly and enthusiastically enough, the contract will most likely become 6♥ doubled.

69


12)

E-W game

♠ A2 ♥ AKQ ♦ A ♣ J 9 5

9542

W

N

E

S

1♥ ?

Pass

2♣

3♠

A massive hand, with which many players would choose a game forcing opening. Unfortunately, we must now decide single-handedly. 4NT (Blackwood, in such cases asking for 4 aces only), followed by a kingasking bid, does not impress with its sophistication… Oh well. 13)

Game all

♠ 75 ♥ KJ64 ♦ K 10 8 ♣ A 9

32

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— 3♠

1♣ 4♣

1♠ Pass

A very interesting problem, which demands “feeling” the bidding, just as some of us feel music. There are experts who understand 4 ♣ as a weak, shapely hand, suitable for sacrifice if need be, something like: E1

E2

84 ♥ 9 ♦ AJ93 ♣ K Q J 10 8 6 ♠

97 ♥ 10 ♦ AQ75 ♣ K Q 10 8 6 2 ♠

With such an approach we must not punish partner for his enterprise and should pass. Much as this may, from time to time, prove a winning decision, most players would vote for bidding – 4 ♥ or 5♣. I like the idea of a waiting 4♦, a co-operative bid that leaves partner a choice of contracts (4 ♥ or 5♣). Unfortunately, we are running the risk of misunderstanding. The opener may treat 4 ♦ as a cue-bid or natural, which might result in a disaster. How can we avoid this? With the help of intellect and subtlety. The problem of selecting the best game contract is a common one in competitive bidding. Whenever possible, we should strive to stay in touch with partner rather than taking t aking the decision on our own.

70


W

N

E

S

Pass 2♥ 4 ♦

Pass 3♠ Pass

1♣ 4♣ ?

1♠ Pass

4 ♥ – a suggestion of contract; 4 ♠ – cue-bid on the way to 5♣; 4NT – “please choose between clubs and diamonds, diamonds, partner” (Blackwood would make no sense, bearing in mind that 4 ♣ was non-forcing); non-forcing); 5♣ – “I prefer clubs” How then should East react to the ambiguous waiting bid of 4 ♦? ♠ 75 ♥ Q6 ♦ A K ♣ K Q

2 10 8 6 4 4♥

432

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

86 K A J8 7 KQ9632

4♠

14) ♠ A K 3 ♥ — ♦ J 10 9 6 ♣ A 9 7 3

♠ 7 ♥ A8 ♦ A4 3 ♣ K J 7 6

♠ 86 ♥ 4 ♦ AQJ ♣ K Q J 10

4NT

743

5♣

E-W game

52

W

N

E

S

1♦ ?

Dbl.

1♠

4♥

A beauty among the minimum hands. Poles being sensitive to beauty, few of them would talk themselves into passing. Possible actions include: 4♠ – sheer madness, most of the time resulting in catastrophe; 5♦ – not completely sane either, but perhaps less costly; but still quite a double – meaning: “if in doubt – bid”; a bit strained, but sensible call. We will be happy to hear partner bid anything; if he passes – maybe we will set them.

71


15)

E-W game

♠ A 10 9 6 ♥ — ♦ K Q 6 ♣ K Q 8

543

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 4♥** ? * – ** –

Pass 2♥ Pass

Pass 3♥* 4 ♠

Pass Pass Pass

10–11 HCP with spade support. heart shortness.

The difficulty here lies in the fact that West’s shortness is just below the agreed suit. After 4♥ East has to decide immediately whether he wants to play in slam or not. There is no “I am interested but but nervous…” in this case. If we exchanged the clubs and hearts, making the auction:

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 4♣ ?

Pass 2♣ Pass

Pass 3♣ 4 ♠

Pass Pass Pass

I would pass, since there was some space available for partner to invite a slam. In the original sequence, however, I bid 5 ♥. Too many East hands make the slam profitable.

16)

Game all

♠ A Q J 9 ♥ AQ ♦ — ♣ A Q 6 4

32

W

N

E

S

1♣ ?

1♦

1 ♠

Pass

There are two routes leading to the slam zone: A) 4 ♦ B) 5 ♦

– splinter, provided we can stop in 5♠. – exclusion Blackwood (asking for 4 key cards: three aces – excluding ♦ A – and ♠ K). If partner shows zero key cards, we settle for 6♠. If he shows one (that is, the ♠ K), we bid 6♣, asking partner to bid grand slam with a second round control in clubs. 72


17) ♠ A J6 4 ♥ A 5 4 ♦ — ♣ A K Q J

E-W game

10 6

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

—

3♠

Possible actions: 3NT – we have eight sure tricks; 4♣ – too soft for such a strong strong hand, but at at least it invites partner’s cooperation; 5♣ – still eight tricks, true, but high trump spots in dummy combined with spade shortness may provide a source of ruffing tricks. 3NT seems an easier contract to make and that would surely be my choice at the table. Nonetheless, 5♣ gives partner a chance to visualize and bid a slam.

18) ♠ 86 ♥ A8 ♦ K J6 4 ♣ Q 10 9 8

Love all

6

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 4♥

— Dbl.

1♥ Pass

We of course hesitate between pass and 4NT (minors). Let’s imagine three East hands representative of the three categories: Favorable ♠ A K7 5 ♥ — ♦ Q 10 5 3 2 ♣ K 7 5 3

Average ♠ K Q 10 4 ♥ 6 ♦ A 87 3 ♣ K 5 3 2

73

Unfavorable ♠ K J 10 3 ♥ 72 ♦ Q 10 5 3 ♣ A K J


Favorable

– around 50% chance of making 5 ♦, opponents are down one or two. Average – around 25% chance of making 5♣, opponents are down one or two. Unfavorable – 5 ♦ goes down, opponents are typically down one. The conclusion – pass. Obviously, if partner’s doubles are of more extravagant sort, 4NT may be an option. What does extravagant mean in this context? Less strength, more shape.

19) ♠ K 8 5 4 ♥ J 10 7 3 ♦ 2 ♣ A Q 9

Love all

2

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

1♦ 1NT

Pass Dbl.

1♠ 2♣

Partner’s double shows a strong hand with diamonds. It seems the half psychic bidding by South South will be penalized this time. Double. 20) ♠ K Q J 3 ♥ 97643 ♦ 6 5 3 ♣ A

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— ? * **

2♠*

4♠**

Pass

– weak two. – minor two-suiter.

After opponent’s preempt, especially while vulnerable against not, forcing partner to the five level should guarantee 10–11 tricks. We provide one more. Should we, therefore, risk a slam? Or should we merely invite it? And how to do it? Our arsenal is limited, but we can at least try. We bid 4NT – “partner, show your better suit”. If East picks clubs, we take preference to 5♦, inviting slam. If he chooses diamonds, we face yet another decision. Perhaps we should now be more eager than before to try 6 ♦.

74


2.1.3. PROBLEMS 21–30 21)

Love all

♠ A 7 3 ♥ — ♦ KQ643 ♣ K 7 6 3 2

22)

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— Pass

Pass 2 ♥

1NT Pass

E

S

Game all

♠ K 7 4 ♥ 8 ♦ A Q 10 ♣ K 7 4 2

W 93

23)

N

— 1NT Pass 2♦* Dbl. 2♥ Dbl. Pass ? * – transfer to hearts. E-W game

♠ — ♥ K Q 4 2 ♦ Q 10 7 4 ♣ K 10 6 2

3

24)

W

N

E

S

— ? *

2♠*

2NT

3♠

– weak.

E-W game

♠ J 87 2 ♥ A 10 7 6 5 ♦ A KJ 3 ♣ —

25) ♠ A ♥ A ♦ A ♣ 2

W

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— 2♠

1♣ 3 ♥

1♠ Pass

Game all

K632 5 Q765

W

N

E

S

1♠ 4♦ ?

Pass Pass

1NT 5♣

3♥ Pass

75


26) ♠ Q7 ♥ KJ87 ♦ 10 2 ♣ A K 7

N-S game

52

27)

87

28)

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— Pass

1 ♠ 3 ♦

Pass Pass

W

N

E

S

— 2♦ ?

— 3♠

1♥ 4♥

Pass 4♠

Love all

♠ 9 7 4 ♥ K 10 9 ♦ K Q 10 ♣ A J 3 2

29)

W

N

E

S

1♣ ? *

2♠*

Dbl.

Pass

– weak.

Game all

4

30) ♠ K Q 10 ♥ A6 ♦ 95 ♣ A 9 8 4

N

Love all

♠ 76 ♥ K5 ♦ A Q 10 9 ♣ A 10 5

♠ A J 7 ♥ K Q 6 5 ♦ K 98 5 ♣ 10

W

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

3♠

4♥

Game all

76

W

N

E

S

1♠ 2♠ 3NT ?

Pass Pass Pass

2 ♦ 3♥ 4 ♦

Pass Pass Pass

76



Love all

♠ A 7 3 ♥ — ♦ KQ643 ♣ K 7 6 3 2

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— Pass

Pass 2 ♥

1NT Pass

Regrettably, we didn’t show minors with 2NT directly over the opening bid. These are some of the possible East hands: a)

b)

♠ 9

52 ♥ K Q J 10 8 ♦ 52 ♣ Q J 10

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

c) ♠ 10 6 4 ♥ 10 9 8 7 5 4 3 ♦ A ♣ A5

K 98 6 QJ7542 10 95

We shouldn’t be guessing. The conclusion – pass.

22) ♠ K 7 4 ♥ 8 ♦ A Q 10 ♣ K 7 4 2

Game all

W 93

N

E

S

— 1NT Pass 2♦* Dbl. 2♥ Dbl. Pass ? * – transfer to hearts.

Is partner’s double for takeout or penalty? That is the question! I don’t think a penalty double makes much sense at such a low level, when opponents are likely to continue bidding. I therefore pull to 3♣ or perhaps even 2♠.

77


23)

E-W game

♠ — ♥ K Q 4 2 ♦ Q 10 7 4 ♣ K 10 6 2

3

W

N

E

S

— ? *

2♠*

2NT

3♠

– weak.

Possible actions: A) Double – not recommended; recommended; partner will pass too too often and this is not our intention. B) 3NT – a practical bid, though sometimes with disastrous disastrous consequences. Opposite: a)

b)

♠ A

10 8 ♥ J9 ♦ KJ85 ♣ A Q J 4

♠ Q

97 ♥ A97 ♦ KJ85 ♣ A Q 4

for instance, diamond game (a) and slam (b) are cold, while 3NT goes down. C) 4♠ – “bid your suit or 4NT, partner!”. An opportunity to find the best game, although it obliges us to take one more more trick if partner persists with notrump. For the sake of elegance I choose 4♠.

24) ♠ J 8 7 2 ♥ A 10 7 6 5 ♦ A KJ 3 ♣ —

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— 2♠

1♣ 3 ♥

1♠ Pass

The basic question is whether 3 ♥ is forcing. In my opinion – NO, not in a competitive sequence. Another question concerns slam chances. We start to paint partner’s hand in our imagination: spade shortness, ♥ K Q J 2 and ♦ Q. This alone (without a trump lead) would suffice for a slam. And it’s just 8 HCP! Let’s not forget, however, that partner knows better what he

78


holds. There must be a reason why he didn’t jump to game or bid splinter with spade shortness (provided he really has it). Perhaps he was dealt unattractive hand with only three-card support. I hear people saying: “Why don’t we just try? Partner will evaluate his hand on the 0–10 scale and act accordingly.” Fair enough, but with: E

Q ♥ K 8 4 ♦ Q 10 9 5 ♣ AQ984 ♠

after our 4♣ East will surely bid 4♠ and he won’t be easily persuaded out of a slam. 25) ♠ A ♥ A ♦ A ♣ 2

Game all

K632 5 Q765

W

N

E

S

1♠ 4♦ ?

Pass Pass

1NT 5♣

3♥ Pass

Is partner’s 5 ♣ natural or a cue-bid? A decidedly more useful approach is the latter: “I have ♣ A and good diamond support! I invite you to bid slam, partner.” An example of East hand: E

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

75 84 K J 10 3 A 10 8 6 4

The conclusion – 6♦.

79


26)

N-S game

♠ Q7 ♥ KJ87 ♦ 10 2 ♣ A K 7

52

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— Pass

1 ♠ 3 ♦

Pass Pass

A very uncomfortable bidding position, due to the lack of space and a multitude of dilemmas. ♠ Q5 ♥ A K 10 ♦ Q 8 7 ♣ J 9 8

32

W1 – 3♠

♠ K Q ♥ A K ♦ K5 ♣ 43

5 975

♠ 3 ♥ A K Q 10 ♦ A6 ♣ A 10 8 4

W2 – 3♠

97

♠ K ♥ A K 4 3 ♦ J 10 6 ♣ 8 7 3 2

W3 – 3♥

2

W4 – 3♥

What are the options with the original West hand? A) 3 ♥

– a rebiddable six-card heart suit, opening the way to a heart slam. B) 3 ♠ – the worst of the three, usually excluding the possibility of a notrump or heart contract. C) 3NT – the experienced players’ favorite; the problem is it will almost always end the auction. The conclusion – 3♥, keeping all the alternatives alive.

27) ♠ 76 ♥ K5 ♦ A Q 10 9 ♣ A 10 5

Love all

87

W

N

E

S

— 2♦ ?

— 3♠

1♥ 4♥

Pass 4♠

The fundamental question is whether a pass would be forcing. If not, we would have to choose on our own between double and 5 ♥. But this is immaterial: bidding game freely after a two-over-one response must create a forced position. This adds PASS to our repertoire, meaning:

80


A) “I will will accept whatever you you do, partner”. B) “I am inviting inviting slam: I intent to bid bid 5♥ after your double or 6 ♥ after anything else”. A forcing pass, used as a slam invitation, is my choice here.

28) ♠ 9 7 4 ♥ K 10 9 ♦ K Q 10 ♣ A J 3 2

Love all

W

N

E

S

1♣ ? *

2♠*

Dbl.

Pass

– weak.

A real headache. 2NT – everything’s fine except for a spade spade stopper, or rather lack thereof. Still, perhaps it’s not as ridiculous as it may seem. South didn’t raise the preempt, which leaves two or three spades for East. 3♣ – from time to time we will will end in a 4–2 fit. On the other hand, partner may bid 3NT – to our delight. delight. 3 ♥ – looks like a decent part-score, but a poor game, should partner raise. The conclusion – 2NT.

29) ♠ A J 7 ♥ KQ654 ♦ K 98 5 ♣ 10

Game all

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

3♠

4♥

Possible actions: Pass – “silent burial”; it is unclear if we can set an escape to 5♣. Double – 4♥ goes down, and as far as 5 ♣ is concerned – well, partner may have some clubs after all. 4♠ – should make, conceding a trick in each of the side suits. The spade game seems the best idea here.

81


30) ♠ K Q 10 ♥ A6 ♦ 95 ♣ A 9 8 4

Game all

76

W

N

E

S

1♠ 2♠ 3NT ?

Pass Pass Pass

2 ♦ 3♥ 4 ♦

Pass Pass Pass

3NT itself was dubious. As for our straightforward bidding, we have an excellent hand – eight on 0–10 scale. Responder would have to present serious arguments to keep us from entering the slam zone. The conclusion – 4♥ (cue-bid).

82


2.1.4. PROBLEMS 31–40 31)

E-W game

♠ 6 5 4 ♥ A4 ♦ A Q J 10 ♣ A K 8 7

32)

N

E

S

— ? *

2♠*

Pass

3♠

– weak.

Love all

♠ 10 8 4 3 ♥ — ♦ A J 10 ♣ A K 9 8 7

3

33)

W

N

E

S

— Dbl. Pass ?

1♥ Pass 5♥

Pass 4 ♠ Pass

4♥ Pass Pass

Game all

♠ A J6 4 ♥ Q J 10 9 3 ♦ A K 7 ♣ K

34) ♠ Q765 ♥ Q 5 4 ♦ 6 ♣ K 7 3

W

W

N

E

S

1♥ 2♠ ?

Pass Pass

2♣ 3♣

Pass Pass

Love all

42

35) ♠ A7643 ♥ — ♦ KJ853 ♣ 8 6

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ ? *

— 2♥

1♣ 4♥*

Pass Pass

– splinter.

N-S game

2

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— 3♥

— 4♠

1♥ 5♣

83


36)

E-W game

♠ K 10 7 ♥ 65 ♦ 9 6 4 ♣ A J 5

54

37)

N

E

S

— Pass 2♠ ?

— 1NT 3♥

— 2♦ Dbl.

1♥ 2♥ Pass

Love all

♠ 8 3 2 ♥ J 10 8 5 ♦ A ♣ K 10 8 7

3

38) ♠ K ♥ A ♦ 9 ♣ A

W

W

N

E

S

— ? *

2♦*

Dbl.

Pass

E

S

– multi

E-W game

53 10 8 5 9864

39) ♠ K3 ♥ AK9 ♦ — ♣ Q J 4

W

N

— — — Pass 3♠ 4 ♦ ? * – weak two

2♠* Pass

Love all

87653

40) ♠ 98 ♥ 10 6 3 ♦ A K 8 ♣ K Q J 9

W

N

E

S

— ?

4♠

4NT

Pass

Love all

7

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

1♦

3♥

84



E-W game

♠ 6 5 4 ♥ A4 ♦ A Q J 10 ♣ A K 8 7

W

N

E

S

— ? *

2♠*

Pass

3♠

– weak.

Yet another uncomfortable position. Double – will cause partner to bid the heart game, which which may turn out out to be on a 4–2 fit. 3NT – is to play; don’t tell me it shows the minors! Pass – too shy; passive play rarely pays off. 4NT – minors; weird as it may seem, it’s a sensible action. The conclusion – 4NT.

32) ♠ 10 8 4 3 ♥ — ♦ A J 10 ♣ A K 9 8 7

Love all

3

W

N

E

S

— Dbl. Pass ?

1♥ Pass 5♥

Pass 4 ♠ Pass

4♥ Pass Pass

What can we do? Pass

– once once we’ve pushed opponents to the five level there is no need to liven up the auction any further. Double – “I have three tricks, I guess – why why should I spare them?” 5♠ – risk justified by the shape of our hand. Each of these options might prove best. It is valuable to know partner’s style in such situation. Does he bid 4♠ whenever he holds four spades? If so, it may be better to double. If, on the other hand, he is reluctant to bid 4 ♠ without good reason, we can trustfully go to 5 ♠.

85


33)

Game all

♠ A J 6 4 ♥ Q J 10 9 ♦ A K 7 ♣ K

3

W

N

E

S

1♥ 2♠ ?

Pass Pass

2♣ 3♣

Pass Pass

Most players would just bid 3NT and proceed to the next hand. This, however, would be an instance of bad hand evaluation. The ♣ K, even singleton, may prove invaluable and the heart sequence is a potential source of tricks. Many typical responder’s hands will make slam a good contract: a) ♠ K ♥ ♦ ♣

b) ♠ K 7 5 ♥ 4 ♦ Q 10 9 ♣ AQJ964

Q4

K 10 9 7 A J 10 6 5 4 6NT

6 ♣

c) ♠ Q 5 3 ♥ A ♦ Q 8 5 ♣ AQ9742

6NT

but partner will pass 3NT with each of them. How should we handle the auction then? I.

W

N

E

S

1♥ 2♠ 3♦ 4♣

Pass Pass Pass

2♣ 3♣ 3 ♠

Pass Pass Pass

3♦ – waiting; 4♣ – delayed support indicates doubts as to the quality of the club suit.

86


II.

W

N

E

S

1♥ 2♠ 3♦ 4NT

Pass Pass Pass

2♣ 3♣ 3NT

Pass Pass Pass

3♦ – waiting; 4NT – invitation. The conclusion – 3♦ (waiting).

34)

Love all

♠ Q765 ♥ Q 5 4 ♦ 6 ♣ K 7 3

42

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ ? *

— 2♥

1♣ 4♥*

Pass Pass

– splinter.

Splinter just below game complicates things. The message of “I am interested, but nervous” must now be passed on the five level. The available calls: A) 4 ♠

– “I don’t count ♥ Q any more. I have only 5 working points, so I discourage partner.” partner.” Another example of wrong evaluation. Two additional spades equal two more tricks and the king in partner’s probably suit may be golden. Diamond shortness and three hearts, meaning two ruffs in dummy, are also among the plus factors. B) 4NT – Blackwood; a practical, but in this case overly imprecise, action:

87


W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 4NT

— 2♥ Pass

1♣ 4 ♥ ?

Pass Pass

5♣

– three key cards. We now sign-off in 5 ♠, while a heart void in dummy makes the slam cold: E1

5♦

A K 10 9 ♥ — ♦ A Q4 2 ♣ Q J 9 8 2 ♠

– four key cards. This time we can cater for this possibility by bidding 6♥ over 5♦ – “with a void bid the grand slam, partner”. Very well, but opposite: E2

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

A K J 10 — A J4 3 A9842

we find ourselves overbidding. There is a more hazardous path available. After 5 ♦ we ask about the number of kings with 5♥ and if partner shows the ♦ K, we inquire about the heart void. This, however, demands perfect mutual understanding and fails to solve the problem conclusively, since ♣ Q instead of ♦ K is enough for the grand slam.

88


C) 5♣

– cue-bid.

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 5♣

— 2♥ Pass

1♣ 4 ♥ ?

Pass Pass

5♦ 5♥

– cue-bid, denying heart void. – heart void, not denying diamond cue-bid.

After 5♦ we bid 5♠. Why? Because now we need four key-cards (three aces and the trump king) and either ♦ K or ♣ Q for a slam: E3

A K J 10 ♥ 2 ♦ A K8 7 ♣ A 8 4 2 ♠

Partner will not pass after 5 ♠ with such hand. After 5♥ we bid 5NT – Blackwood. In the Polish style of bidding 5NT replaces 4NT if the latter was bypassed.

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ 5♣ 5NT

— 2♥ Pass Pass

1♣ 4 ♥ 5 ♥ ?

Pass Pass Pass

6♣ 6♦

– three key cards. – four key cards.

Over 6♣ we conclude the auction at 6♠ and over 6 ♦ we bid 6♥, grand slam invitation, asking: “Do you have anything more, partner?” If, finally, partner shows only two key cards in response to 5NT, e.g. ♠ A K J 10 ♥ — ♦ K Q J 10 ♣ Q J 10 9 8, we are probably too high already. Why “probably”? Because one of the missing key cards may be the trump king, which leaves slam a chance. My choice – 5♣.

89


35)

N-S game

♠ A7643 ♥ — ♦ KJ853 ♣ 8 6

2

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— 3♥

1♥ 4♠

5♣

Should we bid on? Yes, the reason being the sixth spade – an additional trick. What can we do? A) 5 ♥

– “Showing void, just in case partner needs this information”. Such action suggests a misunderstanding of the bidding position. Since spade slam is not totally out of question in this sequence, partner will take 5 ♥ as an invitation, which is not our intention at all. 5♥ as a leaddirecting bid is no wiser, for we, not partner, will be on lead. B) 5 ♠ – “I believe this is the optimum action for us” – as simple and true as that. C) Pass – “Let’s see what the opponents do”. A tactically poor idea, since North may squeeze in i n a diamond cue-bid and before long we will face a decision whether or not to sacrifice against a heart slam. The conclusion – 5♠.

36) ♠ K 10 7 ♥ 65 ♦ 9 6 4 ♣ A J 5

E-W game

54

W

N

E

S

— Pass 2♠ ?

1♥ 1NT 3♥

2♦ Dbl.

2♥ Pass

What is going on? Can it be an invitation to the spade game? Not in this sequence. Remember: we failed to intervene after 1 ♥. Partner is simply showing positive deviation in strength (within the range of his overcall) without spade support, something like:

90


E1

E2

A3 ♥ A2 ♦ A J 10 8 5 2 ♣ Q 6 4 ♠

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

Q9 A 10 7 AQ8532 K9

This time opponents went a bit too aggressive, secure in their nonvulnerability. The conclusion – pass.

37) ♠ 8 3 2 ♥ J 10 8 5 ♦ A ♣ K 10 8 7

Love all

3

W

N

E

S

— ? *

2♦*

Dbl.

Pass

– multi

By doubling 2 ♦ partner asks us to bid our suit, with special emphasis on hearts. We should, therefore, invite game. How? It depends on the agreements, but the easiest way is with a simple 3♥.

38) ♠ K 5 3 ♥ A 10 8 5 ♦ 9 ♣ A 9 8 6 4

E-W game

W

N

E

— — — Pass 3♠ 4 ♦ ? * – weak two

S 2♠* Pass

The only sensible call seems to be 5♦. Pass is an option only with an overactive partner.

91


39)

Love all

♠ K3 ♥ AK9 ♦ — ♣ Q J 4

87653

W

N

E

S

— ?

4♠

4NT

Pass

The controversy over this problem has always been hot, with many different answers suggested: 5♣, 5♥, 6♣, 6♥. Let’s imagine three possible East hands: Favorable ♠ 8 ♥ J ♦ AKJ874 ♣ A 10 5 3 2

Average ♠ 4 ♥ 2 ♦ AQJ864 ♣ K 10 5 3 2

Unfavorable ♠ 87 ♥ — ♦ KQJ873 ♣ A 10 8 7 5

As we can see, it is wiser to settle for a five-level contract. Hard to say which will be easier to make: 5 ♣ or 5♥. I prefer 5♥, giving partner a chance. With: E

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

— J2 AK8732 A9843

he is likely to gamble on the slam. 40) ♠ 98 ♥ 10 6 3 ♦ A K 8 ♣ K Q J 9

Love all

7

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

1♦

3♥

You are shrugging your shoulders, aren’t you? What else if not 4 ♣? It can be agreed that after a negative double of a major suit at the three level by partner, a bid of the other major is forcing. If so, we can double.

92


W

N

E

S

— Dbl.

— Pass

1♦ ?

3♥

Now opener may bid: A) 3 ♠

– after 3♠ we bid 3NT meaning: “I have neither spade support nor a heart stopper. If you have hearts solidly stopped, pass.” You end up declaring 3NT from the wrong side of the table, you may say. Well, I reply, at least I managed to reach this contract! B) 3NT – we are happy to pass. The future looks bright. C) 4♣ – we raise to 5♣. D) 4 ♦ – we raise to game or pass; a close decision. So the answer is double, but only if you accept the above-mentioned agreement. Otherwise 4♣ is correct.

93


2.1.5. PROBLEMS 41–50 41) ♠ A ♥ 6 ♦ K ♣ A

E-W game

52 74 10 9 7 5 4

42) ♠ K 9 5 ♥ 10 5 ♦ A 10 9 ♣ A K 6

N

E

S

— 2♣ Pass ? * –

— 2♠ Pass

— Dbl. Dbl.

1♠ 3♠* Pass

pre-emptive.

E-W game

82

43) ♠ A 10 7 ♥ 7 ♦ K J 9 ♣ 8 7 6 4

W

W

N

E

S

1♦ 1NT ?

Pass Pass

1♥ 2 ♠

Pass Pass

Love all

62

44) ♠ A Q 7 5 ♥ Q 7 4 ♦ 9 ♣ K Q 10 5

45) ♠ A J 6 5 ♥ Q 10 5 4 ♦ 95 ♣ A 10 4

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ Pass ?

— Pass Dbl.

1♥ 2♣ Pass

Pass Pass 2♦

Game all

2

W

N

E

S

— ? *

2♥*

Pass

Pass

– weak two

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— Dbl ?

— 4♦

1♣ Dbl.

3♦ 5♦

94


46)

Game all

♠ Q 7 2 ♥ A Q 10 ♦ A Q 10 ♣ K 10

54

47) ♠ A ♥ A ♦ A ♣ 3

W

N

E

S

1♥ 2NT ?

Pass Pass

1NT 3 ♠

Pass Pass

Love all

K654 5 Q762

48)

3

49)

E

S

1♠ ?

Pass

1NT

2♥

W

N

E

S

— Dbl.* Pass ? * – ** –

Pass 2♥ 3♥

1♣ 2♠** Pass

1♥ Pass Pass

negative, without 4 spades 4 spades, 5+ clubs, non-forcing

Love all

54 2

50) ♠ A J 8 ♥ J 7 2 ♦ AQ7 ♣ A 9

N

Game all

♠ A 6 2 ♥ Q 9 8 6 ♦ J 10 7 6 ♣ Q

♠ AK7 ♥ A8 ♦ 65 ♣ A Q 5

W

W

N

E

S

— 3♠ ?

— Pass

1♥ 4♣

3♦ Pass

E

S

Love all

W 54

N

— — — Pass 1NT 2♥ 2NT* 3 ♥ Pass Pass Dbl.** Pass ? * – Lebensohl. ** – 10+ HCP, 4 spades.

95


My suggested solution solu tions s 41) ♠ A ♥ 6 ♦ K ♣ A

E-W game

52 74 10 9 7 5 4

W

N

E

S

— 2♣ Pass ? * –

— 2♠ Pass

— Dbl. Dbl.

1♠ 3♠* Pass

pre-emptive.

Trying to interfere, the opponents went way overboard. Let’s visualize some of partner’s hands: Favorable ♠ 76 ♥ A K 10 7 ♦ A9853 ♣ J5

Average ♠ 43 ♥ K Q 9 8 ♦ A Q 10 3 2 ♣ 62

Unfavorable ♠ J8 ♥ A Q J 9 ♦ QJ963 ♣ Q3

Game will always be problematic for our side, while 3 ♠ can be defeated by between two and four tricks. The conclusion conclusion – pass.

42) ♠ K 9 5 ♥ 10 5 ♦ A 10 9 ♣ A K 6

E-W game

82

W

N

E

S

1♦ 1NT ?

Pass Pass

1♥ 2 ♠

Pass Pass

This is not a matter of judgement, to be precise, but rather of proper bidding technique. East’s 2♠ is value-showing and game forcing, requesting a notrump contract when the opener holds a club stopper. 2NT now – moving slowly instead of jumping to game – indicates positive deviation deviation in strength. How may the auction develop?

96


W

N

E

S

1♦ 1NT 2NT

Pass Pass Pass

1 ♥ 2 ♠ ?

Pass Pass

3♣ 3♦ 3♥ 3♠

– – – –

waiting, shortness in diamonds. shape description, shortness in clubs. 4 spades and 6 hearts. 5 spades and 6 hearts.

The solution – 2NT.

43) ♠ A 10 7 ♥ 7 ♦ K J 9 ♣ 8 7 6 4

Love all

62

W

N

E

S

— 1♠ Pass ?

— Pass Dbl.

1♥ 2♣ Pass

Pass Pass 2♦

We have four choices: pass, double (my favorite), 2♠, 3♣. As usual, let’s speculate for a while on partner’s hand. Favorable ♠ 9 ♥ A K 9 3 2 ♦ Q4 2 ♣ A 10 5 3

Average ♠ J7 ♥ KQ864 ♦ A9 ♣ K J 9 2

Unfavorable ♠ Q6 ♥ K 10 5 3 2 ♦ Q ♣ A J 9 3 2

Favorable

– we are going to get rich, if only we dare double. We can make 3♣. Average – both 2♦ and 3♣ are more or less down one. Unfavorable – both 2 ♦ and 3♣ make. The conclusion is double. With spade support partner should pull it. Even if the opponents occasionally score +180, most of the time we will teach them some respect.

97


44)

Game all

♠ A Q 7 5 ♥ Q 7 4 ♦ 9 ♣ K Q 10 5

2

W

N

E

S

— ? *

2♥*

Pass

Pass

– weak two

2♠ – some time ago it was unimaginable to balance with a four-card suit at the two level. Nowadays it is almost a standard action.

45)

E-W game

♠ A J 6 5 ♥ Q 10 5 4 ♦ 95 ♣ A 10 4

W

N

E

S

— Dbl ?

— 4♦

1♣ Dbl.

3♦ 5♦

The decision is between pass, forcing, and double, for penalty. Partner’s double of 4 ♦ was, in my view, penalty-oriented, saying: “you may pass, partner”. If so, the choice is obvious: obvious: double. I heard somebody say: “Fine, but what’s the harm of passing?” This is a matter of disciplined bidding. If we pass, and partner takes our encouragement seriously, we may end in 6 ♣ opposite: E

♠ K

Q3 ♥ A K 2 ♦ 10 3 ♣ K Q J 6 5

46) ♠ Q 7 2 ♥ A Q 10 ♦ A Q 10 ♣ K 10

Game all

54

W

N

E

S

1♥ 2NT ?

Pass Pass

1NT 3 ♠

Pass Pass

First of all, what does 3♠ mean? It should show five clubs and five diamonds. We hesitate between 4 ♦ and 5♦, but, the hand being worth more 98


than a minimum 2NT bid, we should take a positive view and jump to game.

47)

Love all

♠ A ♥ A ♦ A ♣ 3

K654 5 Q762

W

N

E

S

1♠ ?

Pass

1NT

2♥

Another troublesome competitive sequence. 3♦ 4♦

– we feel we are underbidding. – it’s not necessarily a good idea to pass by 3NT.

This leaves us with a double, provided it is for takeout but promises at least two hearts. Why such a condition? So that partner could pass for penalty with hands like: E1

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

E2

72 Q984 J6 K Q 10 7 2

10 ♥ J 10 7 6 ♦ J96 ♣ A K 9 6 2 ♠

With the following cards, on the other hand: E3

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

E4

87 K63 KJ6 K 10 7 5 2

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

9 J96 K983 A 10 9 7 2

partner will bid: E3: 2NT, and after our 3 ♦ – 3NT. E4: 3♣, and after 3 ♦ – 5♦. An optimist might even invite slam. The conclusion is double, indicative of a strong hand with at least l east two hearts.

99


48) ♠ A 6 2 ♥ Q 9 8 6 ♦ J 10 7 6 ♣ Q

Game all

3

W

N

E

S

— Dbl.* Pass ? * – ** –

Pass 2♥ 3♥

1♣ 2♠** Pass

1♥ Pass Pass

negative, without 4 spades 4 spades, 5+ clubs, non-forcing

Possible actions: Pass – the choice of the majority of my respondents. Double – for penalty, would be my inclination here. Consider three of partner’s hands: Favorable ♠ K 10 8 5 ♥ 2 ♦ A 9 4 ♣ A J 10 9 3

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

Average Q J4 3 4 K94 AJ932

Unfavorable ♠ Q 54 3 ♥ 5 ♦ Q 9 4 ♣ A K J 6 4

Now let’s count potential tricks: Favorable: ♠ = 2; ♥ = 1; ♦ = 1; ♣ = 2. Total 6 – down two. Average: ♠ = 1,5; ♥ = 1; ♦ = 0,5; ♣ = 2. Total 5 – down one. Unfavorable: ♠ = 1,33; ♥ = 1; ♦ = 0; ♣ = 2,66. Total 5 – down one. Both extreme results – 3♥ making and down three – are, in my opinion, more or less equally likely. The conclusion – double.

100


49) ♠ AK7 ♥ A8 ♦ 65 ♣ A Q 5

Love all

54 2

W

N

E

S

— 3♠ ?

— Pass

1♥ 4♣

3♦ Pass

Extremely difficult problem. Due to the lack of space there is no way to check if partner controls diamonds. The best we can do is to use Blackwood. When the trump suit has not been agreed, Blackwood asks about four aces only. Diamond control other than the ace is unlikely. With some other honor combination opener might have offered 3NT, and the lack of shortness can be deducted from North’s failure to raise the preempt. All in all – 4NT, the least of evils.

50) ♠ A J 8 ♥ J 7 2 ♦ AQ7 ♣ A 9

Love all

W 54

N

E

S

— — — Pass 1NT 2♥ 2NT* 3 ♥ Pass Pass Dbl.** Pass ? * – Lebensohl. ** – 10+ HCP, 4 spades.

Partner is suspected of holding a three-suited hand with heart shortness. Once we realize that diamond slam is an attractive prospect, we know exactly what to do: 4♦, and after partner’s 4♥ cue-bid – we jump straight to 6♦.

101


2.1.6. PROBLEMS 51–60 51)

E-W game

♠ A Q J 10 9 ♥ — ♦ 6 ♣ A 10 9 7 3

86

52) ♠ 10 9 7 ♥ 97 ♦ AK8 ♣ 2

N

E

S

1♠ ?

2♥

Dbl.

5♥

Love all

63 53

53)

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— Dbl.

1NT 2♠

Pass 4♥

Game all

♠ 8 7 5 ♥ — ♦ A 10 3 ♣ A K 10

9763

54) ♠ K76 ♥ A J 9 ♦ 9 7 5 ♣ A Q

W

W

N

E

S

— 3♣ ?

1♠ 3♠

Pass Pass

1NT 4♠

Love all

53

55) ♠ A 6 5 ♥ 7 6 4 ♦ 10 5 3 2 ♣ K 10 9

W

N

E

S

1♠ 4♥ ?

2♦ Pass

4 ♦ 4 ♠

Pass Pass

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 3♥

1♣ Dbl.

2♥ Pass

102


56)

E-W game

♠ A4 ♥ 3 ♦ Q 10 8 7 ♣ Q J 10 9 3

2

57)

N

E

S

— ?

1♥

1♠

4♥

N-S game

♠ A KQ 9 ♥ Q J 6 ♦ 7 ♣ K Q J 10

4

58)

W

N

E

S

— ? *

2♥*

Pass

3♥

– weak.

Love all

♠ 8 5 2 ♥ AKJ ♦ Q 9 6 ♣ A

9 62 62

59)

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— 4♠

1 ♦ Pass

Pass Pass

E-W game

♠ A 7 4 ♥ 8 ♦ AJ643 ♣ A Q 8 7

60) ♠ A4 ♥ K Q ♦ K9 ♣ A Q

W

W

N

E

S

1♦ Pass ?

3♥ Pass

Dbl. Dbl.

4♥ Pass

N-S game

3 J963

W

N

E

S

— Dbl. ?

1♠ Redbl

Pass 2♣

1NT Pass

103


My suggested solution solu tions s 51) ♠ A Q J 10 9 ♥ — ♦ 6 ♣ A 10 9 7 3

E-W game

86

W

N

E

S

1♠ ?

2♥

Dbl.

5♥

The problem aroused hot controversy. Red against white, we are exposed to opponents’ destructive actions. In such situations, faced with evidently preemptive bidding by the opponents, we must assume a pass is forcing. Ironically, a jump to 4 ♥ by South, even at 2/1 vulnerability, would not create a forcing pass situation. Here are the multiple choices we have: • Pass; after partner’s double – pass. • Pass; after partner’s double – 5 ♠, slam invitation. • Pass; after partner’s double – 6♣, grand slam invitation. • 5♠ • 6♣ • 6♠ Let’s picture three example hands, with which partner would double 5 ♥. Favorable ♠ 75 ♥ Q 10 8 ♦ AJ532 ♣ K 5 3

Average ♠ 3 ♥ K 9 6 ♦ A Q 10 8 3 ♣ 8 6 4 2

Unfavorable ♠ 5 ♥ A J 3 ♦ KQ932 ♣ 8 6 4 2

Even opposite the best of the above hands slam is dubious, while opposite the worst even 5♠ is in danger. They go down several tricks, hard to say exactly how many.

104


Now three hands, on which partner wouldn’t be willing to double double 5 ♥. Favorable ♠ K5 ♥ J 7 4 ♦ A K8 7 ♣ Q 6 5 4

Average ♠ 7 ♥ 8 7 4 ♦ AQ987 ♣ K Q 4 2

Unfavorable ♠ 2 ♥ J 10 6 ♦ K Q 10 6 ♣ K Q 8 6 2

It won’t be easy to persuade partner to bid at the five level. True, we have bid encouragingly, but he hasn’t got a clue what sort of hand we hold. Perhaps 5NT – takeout for the minors – looks a bit odd from his perspective, but sometimes only trustful co-operation allows partnership to solve a problem. The surprising conclusion is therefore pass, meaning “I will accept your decision!” This, of course, assumes courageous and consistent bidding by partner. Ask your partner what he would bid with hands which I suggest should be described with 5NT. If he shrugs his shoulders and doubles, then the statistically correct decision, taking into consideration partner’s style, is the direct 5♠.

105


52)

Love all

♠ 10 9 7 ♥ 97 ♦ AK8 ♣ 2

63 53

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— Dbl.

1NT 2♠

Pass 4♥

2♠ over the double promises three-card t hree-card support. Possible actions: Pass – ending the auction. Double – usually ending the auction. 4♠ – we have a positive deviation in distribution. Here are three opener’s hands: Favorable ♠ A 4 2 ♥ 84 ♦ Q 10 6 4 ♣ A K Q 10

Average ♠ K Q 5 ♥ J8 ♦ QJ2 ♣ AQJ93

Unfavorable ♠ A Q 4 ♥ 10 5 ♦ J 76 2 ♣ A K Q 10

4♠ is in peril with each one of them, while 4 ♥ can be defeated two or three tricks. The conclusion – double. With an extreme hand, such as: E

♠ A

KQ ♥ J8 ♦ Q J6 4 ♣ Q J 9 8

partner needn’t pass thoughtlessly. thoughtlessly.

106


53)

Game all

♠ 8 7 5 ♥ — ♦ A 10 3 ♣ A K 10

9763

W

N

E

S

— 3♣ ?

1♠ 3♠

Pass Pass

1NT 4♠

What can we do? Pass – “I’ve said enough”. Double – The double here is often mistaken for for a two-way, offensiveoffensivedefensive double, which would be the case had partner supported us with 4♣. Here the double means something else: “I can ruff something!” Its purpose is lead-directing, rather than doubling the score. With such an understanding, the appropriate call is double. 54) ♠ K76 ♥ A J 9 ♦ 9 7 5 ♣ A Q

Love all

53

W

N

E

S

1♠ 4♥ ?

2♦ Pass

4 ♦ 4 ♠

Pass Pass

Ranking our hand on the 0–10 scale will assist us with the decision. We assume the splinter promises 12+ HCP and three or more spades. What is our hand worth? Positive deviations in strength as well as the location and quality of honors but poor trumps. Blackwood would be untimely, since the potential club and heart finesses are most likely bound to lose. The ranking of the hand is surely somewhere in the 6–8 range, which obliges us to bid on to the five level. We therefore continue with 5 ♣, and after 5♥ – 5♠, drawing partner’s attention to the trump suit.

107


55)

E-W game

♠ A 6 5 ♥ 7 6 4 ♦ 10 5 3 2 ♣ K 10 9

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 3♥

1♣ Dbl.

2♥ Pass

A classic competitive decision. The solution depends on partnership style. Could the opener double with the heart void? In Polish Club East has no choice, since 3♠ would mean a strong hand with 5+ spades. In the Natural System, where the range for 1 ♥ / ♠ openings is 12–21 HCP, there is an alternative. If the 1♣ opening contains game forcing hands, pass in not an option with the West hand. Some of the t he opener’s hands: a)

b)

K Q 10 8 ♥ — ♦ A K8 7 ♣ A Q 5 4 3

♠

♠

♥ ♦ ♣

c)

K 73 2 — K94 AQJ543

Q J4 3 ♥ — ♦ A Q 6 ♣ AJ6543 ♠

The conclusion – 4♥: “Partner, please choose the best game (or perhaps even slam!)”.

56) ♠ A4 ♥ 3 ♦ Q 10 8 7 ♣ Q J 10 9 3

E-W game

2

W

N

E

S

— ?

1♥

1♠

4♥

Possible actions: Pass – no reason to punish partner for entering the bidding. Double – “I have something, I give partner a chance in case he holds a good hand with six spades”. 4♠ – most likely heading for a minus score, though sometimes a winning decision. 5♣ – same.

108


Partner’s average hand: E

KJ965 ♥ 96 ♦ A 6 5 ♣ 6 5 4 ♠

I vote for a double, willing to stand up to the consequences (i.e. –590 from time to time).

57)

N-S game

♠ A KQ 9 ♥ Q J 6 ♦ 7 ♣ K Q J 10

4

W

N

E

S

— ? *

2♥*

Pass

3♥

– weak.

Available options: Pass Double 3♠ 3NT 4♣

– hopelessly passive. – yeah, but what what after 4♦ – the expected response? – spade game is the most likely one. – keep dreaming… (though ♣A and something in diamonds in dummy make it a winning action). – the theoretically correct bid.

East’s typical hand: E

♠ 10

82

5 ♦ AJ9843 ♣ 4 3 2 ♥

The conclusion is 3♠: positive deviations elsewhere compensate for the lack of fifth spade.

109


58)

Love all

♠ 8 5 2 ♥ AKJ ♦ Q 9 6 ♣ A

9 62

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ ?

— 4♠

1 ♦ Pass

Pass Pass

Opener’s pass is forcing and has two alternative meanings: A) “I am going going to accept your choice” B) “After your your double double I will bid on, inviting inviting a slam”. Holding a weak hand with spade shortness and heart fit opener would no doubt bid directly. Possible actions: Double – if partner pulls, we bid slam. 5♣ – 2♥ having shown a one-suited hand, 5 ♣ should be a cue-bid, strongly suggesting slam. It is unclear whether it implies diamond support, but it surely must guarantee spade shortness. 5♦ – to play; commonsense bidding. The conclusion – double.

59) ♠ A 7 4 ♥ 8 ♦ AJ643 ♣ A Q 8 7

E-W game

W

N

E

S

1♦ Pass ?

3♥ Pass

Dbl. Dbl.

4♥ Pass

Since the pass over 4 ♥ was forcing, showing willingness to invite a slam, it is now obvious to continue with 5♣.

110


60) ♠ A4 ♥ K Q ♦ K9 ♣ A Q

N-S game

3 J963

W

N

E

S

— Dbl. ?

1♠ Redbl

Pass 2♣

1NT Pass

The number of clubs in a deck of cards is limited. Therefore, partner has a weak hand with short clubs. Why does he bid them, then? He probably hopes to get doubled, which would enable him to describe his two-suited hand. After opponents’ double: 2♦ – would show diamonds at least as long as hearts; Redouble – would show heart - diamond two-suiter two-suiter with the major longer than the minor. The conclusion – pass. The 2♣ call should be alerted as a two-meaning bid; either natural or a twosuiter with diamonds and hearts. In a risky situation it is a key task within a partnership to find a suit to play. A straightforward bid of the longest red suit does not necessary guarantee it. The opponents are forced to bid so even if they lead us down the garden path, still, it will not cost much without the double.

111


2.1.7. PROBLEMS 61–70 61)

Love all

♠ Q ♥ 6 4 2 ♦ A 97 2 ♣ A 10 8 7

3

62) ♠ K ♥ A ♦ 6 ♣ K

W

N

E

S

— ?

2♥

2 ♠

Pass

E-W game

73 85 Q7543

63) ♠ Q 10 7 6 ♥ A 8 3 2 ♦ K5 ♣ 7 5

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 4♦

— Dbl.

3♦ Pass

Love all

2

64) ♠ 75 ♥ A K Q 4 ♦ A 10 8 7 ♣ —

W

W

N

E

S

— Pass Pass Pass ? * –

— Pass Rdbl. 3♣

1♦ Dbl. Pass Pass

2♠* Pass 2NT Pass

weak

N-S game

6 54

W

N

E

S

— 3♦ ? *

2♦* Pass

3♣ 3♥

Pass Pass

– multi.

112


65) ♠ 9 7 6 ♥ 86 ♦ Q J 10 ♣ K J 10

Love all

W

S 2♥ Pass

E-W game

♠ A7 ♥ Q 10 9 ♦ Q 7 3 ♣ J 8 4 3 2

67)

W

N

E

S

— 1NT ?

— 2♠

1 ♦ 3♥

Pass 4♠

Game all

976 83

68)

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

3 ♠

3NT

E-W game

♠ 3 ♥ 3 ♦ K Q J 10 ♣ A 10 9 8

9 87

69) ♠ 10 7 6 ♥ Q 10 ♦ 10 9 8 ♣ —

E

— 1NT* Dbl. Pass 3♥ Dbl. ? * – 10–12 HCP

6 6

66)

♠ 97 ♥ A J 10 ♦ — ♣ A K Q

N

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

4♥

4♠

E-W game

2 7652

W

N

E

S

— Pass 5♦ ? * –

1♠ Pass 5♠

2♠* Dbl. Pass

4♠ Pass Pass

5 hearts, 5 clubs/diamonds.

113


70) ♠ J ♥ J 10 8 2 ♦ 10 7 ♣ K J 10 6

Love all

43

W

N

E

S

— 3♣ ? * **

— Pass

2NT* 3♥**

Pass Pass

– 20 – 22 HCP – 5 hearts

My suggested solution solu tions s 61) ♠ Q ♥ 6 4 2 ♦ A 97 2 ♣ A 10 8 7

Love all

3

W

N

E

S

— ?

2♥

2 ♠

Pass

3♣ would be forcing. True, it is still possible to stop in 3 ♠, but as a matter of real life it won’t be easy at all. 3♥ would ask for a stopper and force to game. My answer is pass – I can see no reason to bid any further. Much more often we will go down at a higher level than realize the bridge player’s cherished dream of making a game.

114


62)

E-W game

♠ K 7 3 ♥ A 8 5 ♦ 6 ♣ K Q 7

543

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 4♦

— Dbl.

3♦ Pass

A difficult problem, both in terms of a decision and bidding technique. The double of 4 ♦ is majors-oriented and may, in an extreme case, be made with club shortness, e.g. with: E

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

A Q 10 3 2 KQJ42 A4 2

For this reason double was risky, as is the sensibly-looking jump to 6 ♣. A difficult position demands intellectual effort. West’s 5♦ should now show a two-suiter and slam invitation. It is, however, conceivable that, with a five card major, West already knows the optimum trump suit, but not the proper level. Therefore, after 5♦ East should bid 5 ♥ refusing the invitation, or 5NT accepting it.

W

N

E

S

— Pass 5♦ 6♣

— 4♦ Pass

— 3♦ Dbl. Pass 5♥/NT Pass

I wish partner understood this sequence indicates, ideally, a 3–3–1–6 shape. There is some sense to it, but I’m aware my reasoning is a bit too strained. To sum up, we have the choice of: 5♣ 5♦ 6♣

– very cautious; sometimes a grand grand slam will be the spot spot to be. – initiating subtle intellectual discourse with partner. – might be a miss, miss, but at least I’m more or less holding holding what what I’m bidding.

The conclusion – 6♣. 115


63) ♠ Q 10 7 6 ♥ A 8 3 2 ♦ K5 ♣ 7 5

Love all

2

W

N

E

S

— Pass Pass Pass ? * –

— Pass Rdbl. 3♣

1♦ Dbl. Pass Pass

2♠* Pass 2NT Pass

weak

The fundamental question is: are we forced to bid? The answer is YES. Possible actions: Double – if partner couldn’t afford to double, double, neither can we; it would would be a textbook example of being caught in a doubling rhythm. 3♦ – at the moment we are searching for the best partscore. 3♥ – an instinctive bid: “If I’m forced to say something, I’ll simply show what I have.” The problem is that the heart suit is bound to split extremely unfavorably. Consider the implications of North’s SOS redouble: he must hold a two-suited hand with hearts and clubs. Pass – lack of bidding discipline, but a pragmatic decision. Perhaps 3♣ can be defeated, perhaps not, but any contract of ours is doomed. The conclusion – pass. Coward! Yes, but a wise coward!

64) ♠ 75 ♥ A K Q 4 ♦ A 10 8 7 ♣ —

N-S game

6 54

W

N

E

S

— 3♦ ? *

2♦* Pass

3♣ 3♥

Pass Pass

– multi.

Basic principles of bidding in action: third suit is natural or at least shows values. If so, partner promised six (or five) clubs and four hearts; a diamond void is likely, too. What does it amount to? Anything from 4 ♥ to 7♥. Let’s have a look at some of East hands:

116


Favorable ♠ A 10 ♥ J 7 6 2 ♦ 2 ♣ A K Q 8 7 3

Average ♠ K 4 2 ♥ J 8 7 5 ♦ — ♣ AKQ943

Unfavorable ♠ Q 4 3 ♥ 10 9 5 3 ♦ — ♣ A K Q J 10 9

Favorable – small slam is pretty good. Average – 5♥ is in danger. Unfavorable – we’re in serious trouble trouble at 5♥. Well aware of difficulties we may encounter even at the five level, should we still invite slam? If so, how to do it? With a jump to 5♥, conditioning slam upon spade control. Many players wouldn’t be able to bring themselves to settle with 4♥. 65)

Love all

♠ 9 7 6 ♥ 86 ♦ Q J 10 ♣ K J 10

W 6 6

N

E

— 1NT* Dbl. Pass 3♥ Dbl. ? * – 10–12 HCP

S 2♥ Pass

Classic competitive decision. Available calls: Pass

4♣, 4♦ 4NT

– perhaps the opponents are going to pay for their overt aggressiveness. On the other hand, the contract may be makeable. What tricks will they take? – you will ask. I respond: eight trump tricks (including ruffs) and one side suit trick. – to play; hitting the appropriate strain strain and level is a gamble. – take-out take-out for minors; perhaps too high, but at least in the right suit.

The conclusion: pass against aggressive, daring opponents, 4NT against passive, conservative opponents. opponents.

117


66)

E-W game

♠ A7 ♥ Q 10 9 ♦ Q 7 3 ♣ J 8 4 3 2

W

N

E

S

— 1NT ?

— 2♠

1 ♦ 3♥

Pass 4♠

The unfavorable vulnerability creates a forcing pass situation. Strong hand with six diamonds and four hearts should be enough for game. What about slam? We have valuable, usefully located honors, but only three trumps. A fair, but not outstanding hand. A slam invitational pass would be an overbid to my mind. The conclusion – 5♦. 67)

Game all

♠ 97 ♥ A J 10 ♦ — ♣ A K Q

976 83

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

3 ♠

3NT

The problem is tougher than it may seem. Firstly, the choice of games – 4 ♥ or 4♠ – is far from obvious, though the danger of losing trump control favors spades. Moreover, the simple 4 ♠ is unlikely to end the auction. Soon we will have to face another decision:

W

N

E

S

— 4♠ ?

— Pass

3 ♠ Pass

3NT 5♦

We embark on a guessing game. How to invite partner’s co-operation for the sake of more effective decision-making? Anticipating these difficulties, I recommend a double over 3NT. It will make occasionally, I admit, but, on the other extreme, 3NT might go down seven (we take six hearts and five clubs).

118


W

N

E

S

— Dbl. 4♠

— Pass 5♦

3 ♠ Pass ?

3NT 4♦

Our (West’s) previous call created a forcing pass situation. If partner now passes, we will be in a position to bid 5♥, a suggestion of contract. The conclusion – double, initiating the descriptive sequence.

68)

E-W game

♠ 3 ♥ 3 ♦ K Q J 10 ♣ A 10 9 8

9 87

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

4♥

4♠

At the table West chose 5♦ and was astonished to hear the rest of the auction.

W

N

E

S

— 5♦

— Pass

4♥ 6 ♥

4♠ Dbl.

The problem lays in the interpretation of 5 ♦. Is it: A) to play; or B) a diamond diamond cue-bid, slam invitational, with no club control. control. My experience attests to the statistical advantage of using 5♦ in the second sense. West made a common error of attaching to a bid meaning compatible with one’s actual hand. Having accepted the cue-bid interpretation of 5 ♦, we have following calls available in the original position:

119


Pass – hard to bear, sure, but may be a winning decision. Double – likewise, though not my favorite. 4NT – meaning: a) 6-6 minors; b) invitation to diamond slam; c) invitation to heart slam with spades stopped.

W

N

E

S

— 4NT 5♦

— Pass

4♥ 5 ♣

4♠ Pass

I must admit I like 4NT best.

69) ♠ 10 7 6 2 ♥ Q 10 ♦ 10 9 8 7 ♣ —

E-W game

6 52

W

N

E

S

— Pass 5♦ ? * –

1♠ Pass 5♠

2♠* Dbl. Pass

4♠ Pass Pass

5 hearts, 5 clubs/diamonds.

A very difficult problem. Possible actions: Pass

– we pushed them up a level, let’s not be too greedy; never mind this puzzled look in partner’s eyes when we write down +150... Double – East’s double suggests he accepted the possibility of defending against 4♠ doubled. What is more, our four trumps will make declarer’s task much tougher. I expect a good penalty. 6♦ – partner liked the diamond contract; apparently he holds a diamond fit along with his 5-5. Still, I have an impression he expects us to bid slam with a constructive hand only. And we are dramatically weak. If, nonetheless, slam were makeable, partner would bid it himself. The conclusion – double.

120


70)

Love all

♠ J ♥ J 10 8 2 ♦ 10 7 ♣ K J 10 6

43

W

N

E

S

— 3♣ ? * **

— Pass

2NT* 3♥**

Pass Pass

– 20 – 22 HCP – 5 hearts

Possible actions: 3♠ 4♥

– cue-bid, not specifying the type (shortness or honor). – the verdict.

Although slam may be cold opposite as few as 19 HCP, there must be some specific values in partner’s hand: E

♠ 6

54 ♥ A K Q5 4 ♦ A 8 7 ♣ A Q 2

There is serious risk involved in any continuation other than 4 ♥: we may find ourselves in a losing five-level contract. The conclusion: 4♥ with an optimist. 3♠ riding the fence.

121


2.1.8. PROBLEMS 71–80 71)

E-W game

♠ J 10 9 7 ♥ K 10 2 ♦ K6 ♣ J 6 4 2

72)

N

E

S

— 2♠ 4♠ ?

— 3♣ Pass

1 ♠ 3♦ Pass

Dbl. 4♣ 5♣

E-W game

♠ K Q 5 4 ♥ K Q 10 6 ♦ 3 ♣ J 10 9

2

73)

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 5♦

— Dbl.

3♦ Pass

Love all

♠ Q ♥ K Q J 6 ♦ A 10 9 ♣ A 10 8 7

3

74) ♠ J5 ♥ AQ ♦ A K ♣ 7

W

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

—

3♦

Game all

87653 10

75) ♠ A 7 6 3 ♥ AKQ6 ♦ 6 ♣ 4

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ 3♥ 4♦ ?

— Pass Pass Pass

1 ♠ 3♣ 3 ♠ 4 ♠

Pass Pass Pass Pass

E-W game

543

W

N

E

S

— Dbl. 4♥ ?

3♦ Pass 5♦

Pass Pass Pass

3NT 4♦ Pass

122


76)

Game all

♠ 84 ♥ AQJ ♦ 5 ♣ A J 8

8764

77)

N

E

S

1♥ ? *

2♠*

3♦

4♠

– weak.

E-W game

♠ 82 ♥ AQ ♦ AK ♣ 7

10 9 6 5 3 Q

78) ♠ Q ♥ A ♦ K ♣ A

W

W

N

E

S

— ?

3♠

5♣

5♠

Love all

96 2 J 10 9 8 QJ

79)

N

E

S

— 2♦ 4♣ ? *

Pass Dbl.* 4♥

Pass 3♣ Pass

1♠ 3♥ Pass

– negative

Game all

♠ — ♥ Q J 7 5 3 ♦ A 6 4 ♣ A K 7 5

2

80) ♠ A J 4 ♥ — ♦ Q 76 4 ♣ A Q 7 6

W

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ 3♣ ? *

— Pass Pass

— 2 ♠ 4 ♥

2♦* Pass Pass

– multi

Love all

43

W

N

E

S

— ?

1♥

Pass

4♥

123



E-W game

♠ J 10 9 7 ♥ K 10 2 ♦ K6 ♣ J 6 4 2

W

N

E

S

— 2♠ 4♠ ?

— 3♣ Pass

1 ♠ 3♦ Pass

Dbl. 4♣ 5♣

In my lecture on the evergreen topic of When is PASS forcing in the competitive bidding? I put forward a proposition that after a game invitation was accepted, pass is forcing only when vulnerable against not, and not lower than at the five level. According to this rule, our pass would now be forcing. How can we take advantage of it? So far we have informed partner about good, fitting hand. No we must evaluate our hand in the context of this information. Let’s try to picture possible partner’s hands containing a club void: a)

b)

c)

KQ832 ♥ Q 4 3 ♦ AQ953 ♣ —

AKQ42 ♥ Q 6 2 ♦ Q J 10 9 5 ♣ —

AK5432 ♥ A 5 3 ♦ Q 87 3 ♣ —

♠

♠

♠

We have two choices: Pass

– holding holding the club void (very likely) partner will bid on. Do we want it? Sure we do! Double – concluding the auction. The choice: pass.

72) ♠ K Q 5 4 ♥ K Q 10 6 ♦ 3 ♣ J 10 9

E-W game

2

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 5♦

— Dbl.

3♦ Pass

124


It all depends on partnership style. Do we double in such situations to stop opponents from stealing the hand for cheap penalty? I think we should. This is a practical approach to bidding. Example of partner’s hand: E

A 87 3 ♥ A 9 7 3 ♦ 87 ♣ K Q 2 ♠

If we adopt this style, pulling the double should be really constructive. The French approach, on the other hand, is a takeout-oriented double, such as: E

A J 10 2 ♥ A J 9 3 ♦ 4 ♣ A K Q 2 ♠

I, however, remain an adherent of the first, practical approach. Whatever your preference, make sure it is in harmony with your partner’s style. The conclusion – 5♥. With the “French” hand East will raise to 6♥.

73)

Love all

♠ Q ♥ K Q J 6 ♦ A 10 9 ♣ A 10 8 7

3

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

—

3♦

Possible actions: Double Pass 3NT 3♥

– too often will lead to disaster. – too passive. – agressive – least of evils.

The choice – 3♥.

125


74)

Game all

♠ J5 ♥ AQ ♦ A K ♣ 7

87653 10

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ 3♥ 4♦ ?

— Pass Pass Pass

1 ♠ 3♣ 3 ♠ 4 ♠

Pass Pass Pass Pass

Available calls: 4NT – Blackwood; brutal bridge. 5 ♦ – co-operating; slightly overbidding. 5 ♠ – co-operating in a different way; overbidding as well. Pass – partner refused an invitation to slam. slam. It’s hard to imagine he would bid this way with a hand which guarantees guarantees a good slam, such as: E1

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

E2

AKQ872 2 3 KQ863

AK8762 ♥ 2 ♦ Q3 ♣ A Q 5 4 ♠

I fear he holds something like: E

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

AK8762 — Q3 KQ982

opposite which even 5 ♠ is far from cold. I respect partner’s decision. I pass. 75) ♠ A ♥ A ♦ 6 ♣ 4

E-W game

763 KQ6543

W

N

E

S

— Dbl. 4♥ ?

3♦ Pass 5♦

Pass Pass Pass

3NT 4♦ Pass

126


Is East’s pass over 5 ♦ forcing? This is a subtle question, even for an outstanding theoretician. The unfavorable vulnerability along with a general intuition that opponents are sacrificing should convince us that partner’s pass is indeed forcing. That doesn’t make our decision obvious, but, bearing in mind that our strong bidding was based on shape rather than on HCP – which partner did not know – we should lean towards 5♥.

76)

Game all

♠ 84 ♥ AQJ ♦ 5 ♣ A J 8

8764

W

N

E

S

1♥ ? *

2♠*

3♦

4♠

– weak.

3♦ is, in the absence of any special agreement, game forcing. This creates a forcing pass position. Diamond shortness and two trumps are an argument in favor of doubling, but it is equally tempting to rebid the excellent heart suit. What should then be our choice? It’s too early to say. For the time being we pass, planning to accept partner’s double, but remove his 5 ♦ to 5♥.

77) ♠ 82 ♥ AQ ♦ AK ♣ 7

E-W game

10 9 6 5 3 Q

W

N

E

S

— ?

3♠

5♣

5♠

Pure high-level competitive decision. Anything from five to seven clubs or from four to seven hearts might be the right contract. What can be done? Double – terminates the auction. auction. 6♣ – partner was prepared to make 5♣, with my hand he should easily make the slam. 6♥ – solo action, often of catastrophic consequences. Pass – forcing…? Hard to believe, but it should be. We demand unswerving consistency from partner. East’s example hands:

127


a)

b)

c)

43 ♥ — ♦ J 10 ♣ A K Q 10 9 8 5 4 3

4 ♥ — ♦ J 98 6 ♣ A K Q 10 6 5 4 2

— ♥ 2 ♦ J 4 2 ♣ A K J 10 7 6 5 3 2

♠

♠

♠

After our pass partner should: a) double; b) bid 6♣; c) bid 5NT, showing spade void. If we can count on him to do it – it’s wonderful. The conclusion – pass, willing to accept partner’s decision.

78) ♠ Q 9 6 2 ♥ A ♦ K J 10 9 ♣ A Q J

Love all

8

W

N

E

S

— 2♦ 4♣ ? *

Pass Dbl.* 4♥

Pass 3♣ Pass

1♠ 3♥ Pass

– negative

Partner’s possible hands fall, as usual, into three categories: Favorable ♠ 72 ♥ 8 5 3 ♦ 2 ♣ K 10 9 8 6 4 2

Average ♠ J6 ♥ J 8 7 2 ♦ 6 ♣ K 10 9 8 7 4

Unfavorable ♠ J 4 3 ♥ J 10 6 4 ♦ — ♣ K 10 7 5 3 2

The conclusion – double. With the first hand partner will remove it to 5♣, with the others – he will pass.

128


79)

Game all

♠ — ♥ Q J 7 5 3 ♦ A 6 4 ♣ A K 7 5

2

W

N

E

S

— 2♥ 3♣ ? *

— Pass Pass

— 2 ♠ 4 ♥

2♦* Pass Pass

– multi

East’s sequence was stronger than direct raise to 4 ♥ would be. We have positive deviation in shape and quality of honors, enough for a cue-bid – 4♠.

80) ♠ A J 4 ♥ — ♦ Q 76 4 ♣ A Q 7 6

Love all

43

W

N

E

S

— ?

1♥

Pass

4♥

Available actions: Pass – too soft. Double – since partner did not overcall 1♠, we can’t hope for five spades in his hand. 4NT – asking partner to choose between the minors; however, the disproportion in length between the two suits is too serious. 5♣ – looks sensible, though it might end in disaster from time to time. The conclusion – 5♣.

129


2.1.9. PROBLEMS 81–90 81)

Love all

♠ — ♥ Q J 10 9 ♦ K 10 8 7 4 ♣ A Q 10 9

82)

E

S

1♦ Pass ?

1♠ 2♠

Pass Pass

2♦ Pass

E

S

W

N

— — — Pass 3♥* 3NT ? * – limit raise

83)

1♥ Pass

E-W game

874

84)

W

N

E

S

— 2♦ ?

— 2♠

1NT Pass

Pass Pass

Game all

♠ AKQ6 ♥ K ♦ 32 ♣ A Q J 7

54

85) ♠ A 10 3 ♥ K 6 5 ♦ A3 ♣ A K J 4

N

Love all

♠ A 5 2 ♥ 10 6 5 3 ♦ A 7 6 ♣ K 10 5

♠ K 10 2 ♥ A K J 9 ♦ Q ♣ K Q

W

W

N

E

S

1♠ 3♣ ?

Pass Pass

2♥ 4♣

Pass Pass

E

S

Love all

W 2

N

1♣ 1NT* Pass Dbl. Pass 2NT ? * – 15 – 18 HCP.

130

Pass Pass


86)

N-S game

♠ — ♥ A J 8 6 5 3 ♦ K J 10 7 3 ♣ 9 5

87) ♠ Q6 ♥ 10 7 ♦ J ♣ A Q 10

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

1 ♠

1NT

E-W game

97543

88)

89)

E

S

— 2♣ 3♣ ?

— 2♦ Pass

1 ♠ 2 ♥ 3NT

Pass Pass Dbl.

E

S

W

N

— — 1♥ 2♣ 2♠* 4♣ 4♥ 5♣ ? * – one round force N-S game

7

90) ♠ J 95 3 ♥ A Q 9 7 ♦ — ♣ A K Q J

N

E-W game

♠ A 10 9 8 2 ♥ 65 ♦ A7543 ♣ 5

♠ A 9 6 ♥ 9 4 3 2 ♦ 4 ♣ A J 10 9

W

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

3 ♠

Dbl.

Game all

4

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

—

4♠

131


My suggested solution solu tions s 81) ♠ — ♥ Q J 10 9 ♦ K 10 8 7 4 ♣ A Q 10 9

Love all

W

N

E

S

1♦ Pass ?

1♠ 2♠

Pass Pass

2♦ Pass

Let me remind you it’s IMP scoring this time. This, however, does not change the fact, that we are facing a difficult problem. The opponents stopped low when trumps split unfavorably for them. This is a bad omen. Our failure to double 2 ♦ should warn partner not to expect any extras in terms of HCP, so we needn’t surrender yet. Double – an accurate description of shape – is not recommendable due to the shortage of quick tricks. What remains? 2NT, for takeout. 82) ♠ A 5 2 ♥ 10 6 5 3 ♦ A 7 6 ♣ K 10 5

Love all

W

N

E

— — — Pass 3♥* 3NT ? * – limit raise

S 1♥ Pass

3NT should normally be natural, to play, but in this case partner apparently hoped we would deduce another meaning of his bid from our own hand, namely 5+♣ – 5+♦. Moreover, partner’s hand must be shapely but weak, because he couldn’t afford to bid the clear-cut 4NT. Be that as it may, we want to reach game. We bid 4NT: “partner, show your longer suit!”

132


83) ♠ K 10 2 ♥ AKJ9 ♦ Q ♣ K Q

E-W game

874

W

N

E

S

— 2♦ ?

— 2♠

1NT Pass

Pass Pass

The potential heart slam is vulnerable to a spade ruff. 6NT might be equally dangerous, since it would be declared from the wrong side of the table (the only two honors we are lacking might well be ♠ A and ♠ Q). The matter requires further investigation. 3 ♠ would be splinter with hearts as trumps, while double would show positive deviation in strength. After the double 2NT would be a dream-come-true rebid from partner, for it would solve all our problems conclusively. Taking into consideration our spade holding and vulnerability, it is highly improbable that partner will leave in our double. After 3♥ we will inquire about spade stopper with 3 ♠. Even grand slam in notrump is not out of the question. It only requires three aces and a heart fit from partner. The conclusion – double.

133


84)

Game all

♠ AKQ6 ♥ K ♦ 32 ♣ A Q J 7

54

W

N

E

S

1♠ 3♣ ?

Pass Pass

2♥ 4♣

Pass Pass

An intriguing problem, illustrative of some of the dilemmas of natural bidding. Possible actions: 4♥

– cue-bid, but may be taken as suggestion of better game with something like: W

4♠

K6543 ♥ KQ ♦ J 10 ♣ A Q J 7 ♠

– a suggestion of better game with: W

A K J 10 6 5 ♥ 3 ♦ 32 ♣ A Q 10 9 ♠

4NT – Blackwood; with our strength, strength, it is rather unlikely that partner does not control diamonds. The 3 key cards (out of five) response will take us right to the grand slam. On the other extreme, we may go down in small slam after the indicated diamond lead. The conclusion – 4♥, provided we have agreed it is a cue-bid. When in doubt – 4NT.

85) ♠ A 10 3 ♥ K 6 5 ♦ A3 ♣ A K J 4

Love all

W 2

N

E

1♣ 1NT* Pass Dbl. Pass 2NT ? * – 15 – 18 HCP. 134

S Pass Pass


East’s 2NT is a two-suiter: the more shapely the hand, the weaker it is. Clubs are not likely to be one of partner’s suits, since South passed 1NT. We have a positive deviation in the quality of honors, but poor location and short fits. In sum – no reason to get excited. The conclusion – 3 ♣. Partner’s 3♦ we will modestly correct to 3♥, and his 3♥ – to 3♠, giving him an opportunity to raise to game.

86)

N-S game

♠ — ♥ A J 8 6 5 3 ♦ K J 10 7 3 ♣ 9 5

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

1 ♠

1NT

A question of bidding technique. 2NT in this sequence bears one of the three meanings: A) A two-suiter. B) Invitation with 6+ hearts. C) Invitation with spade support. Opener picks a minor, and we rebid: 3 ♥ – showing variation B 3 ♠ – showing variation C 4♣/♦ – invitation with minors

W

N

E

S

— 2NT ?

— pass

1 ♠ 3♣

1NT Pass

In this case we choose between: 3♦ 3♥

– red two-suiter; and – 6+ hearts, invitation.

The conclusion – 2NT, and after 3♣ – 3 ♥, game invitation with hearts.

135


87) ♠ Q6 ♥ 10 7 ♦ J ♣ A Q 10

E-W game

97543

W

N

E

S

— 2♣ 3♣ ?

— 2♦ Pass

1 ♠ 2 ♥ 3NT

Pass Pass Dbl.

A tough one. Marek Wójcicki’s method of reading the closed hands might be helpful, employed, in this case, during the bidding. South has a decent hand without diamond support (he failed to raise partner to 3 ♦). This strongly indicates a few diamonds in partner’s hand and, perforce, club shortness. If so, why did he bid 3NT? North’s only asset is good diamonds – his overcall was lead-directing. This suggests club honors are in the doubler’s hand, under the tenace of our AQ10. We are not in a position to draw any reasonable conclusions. We pass – our long hesitation would effectively deprive partner from the right to correct the contract. The whole analysis was, in fact, futile. We have what we promised (we actually have one club more) – we leave it all al l to partner.

88) ♠ A 10 9 8 2 ♥ 65 ♦ A7543 ♣ 5

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— — 1♥ 2♣ 2♠* 4♣ 4♥ 5♣ ? * – one round force

At this vulnerability our sequence has created a forcing pass position. The evaluation of this hand is nevertheless extremely difficult. We are too weak for our forcing response in terms of HCP, but two aces and the club shortness compensate. Available data is too scarce for us to decide. The solution is to pass, willing to accept any decision by partner.

136


89)

N-S game

♠ A 9 6 ♥ 9 4 3 2 ♦ 4 ♣ A J 10 9

7

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

3 ♠

Dbl.

An interesting problem from the viewpoint of the bidding strategy. He has two options: A) 4 ♠

– occupying plenty of bidding space, though excluding the partner from decision-making. decision-making. We may be forced to guess at the five level . – descriptive, showing values in the bid suit. Initiates cooperation with the partner at the five-level: with something in clubs East should go higher. At the same time 4 ♣ is lead-directing, a value in itself. On the minus side, it leaves more bidding space for the t he opponents.

B) 4♣

My choice: 4♣.

90) ♠ J 95 3 ♥ A Q 9 7 ♦ — ♣ A K Q J

Game all

4

W

N

E

S

— ?

—

—

4♠

The question of style. My views evolved with the growing aggressiveness of high level openings. Double over such openings, from 4 ♠ upwards, is strongly penalty-oriented, the message being: “I’d rather you pass, partner!”. This is not tantamount to saying that passing is mandatory with a hand highly suitable for our side’s own contract. The double must then have at least some offensive potential. The actual hand is a good example of the combination of defensive and offensive values. Admittedly, partner’s persistence with diamonds may sometimes have disastrous consequences and if he holds a two-suiter we might end up in slam, but the double will most of the time end the auction, which we’ve got no reason to complain about.

137


2.1.10. PROBLEMS 91–100 91)

Love all

♠ 42 ♥ Q 9 7 2 ♦ J 86 4 ♣ 7 3 2

92) ♠ 8 7 4 3 ♥ — ♦ Q 10 5 ♣ A Q J 9

86

6

♠ A 9 6 5 ♥ 6 ♦ Q J6 2 ♣ Q J 10 3

♠ Q 9 8 ♥ Q 9 3 2 ♦ 87 ♣ K J 8 6

E

S

— Pass Pass ?

— 1♠ Pass

— Pass Dbl.

1♣ 1NT Rdbl.

W

N

E

S

— Dbl. ?

— 4♥

1♦ Pass

3♥ Pass

Love all

94)

95)

N

N-S game

93) ♠ 84 ♥ K 6 3 ♦ Q 10 7 ♣ K Q J 7

W

W

N

E

S

— ?

1♠

Dbl.

4♠

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— ? * **

2♠*

3♠**

Pass

– weak. – 5♥ – 5♣/♦

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— 2♥* 2♠ ? * –

— Dbl. 3♥

1 ♠ Pass Pass

Dbl. Pass Pass

transfer to spades, 3-card fit, 7–9 HCP 138


96)

Game all

♠ 4 ♥ KQJ864 ♦ J ♣ A Q 9 5

3

97)

N

E

S

— 4♥ 5♣ ? *

— Dbl. 5♦

2♣* Pass Dbl.

Pass 4♠ 5♠

– 5+♣ – 4♥/♠ or 6+♣ (Precision).

Love all

♠ — ♥ J 10 9 4 3 ♦ J7532 ♣ 8 6 4

98)

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 4♠

1♣ Dbl.

2♠ Pass

E-W game

♠ A9 ♥ A Q 8 5 ♦ 10 6 4 ♣ A K Q 10

99) ♠ AK ♥ Q 9 2 ♦ K8 ♣ A K J

W

W

N

E

S

1♣ ?

2♠

Pass

4♠

Game all

10 3 2

100) ♠ 8 7 3 ♥ AK ♦ A K 8 ♣ J 9 5 4

W

N

E

S

1♣ 3NT ?

2♠ Pass

Pass Pass

3♠ Dbl.

E

S

E-W game

W 2

N

1NT 2♠ Dbl.* 3 ♠ ? * – negative, no spade shortness.

139



Love all

♠ 42 ♥ Q 9 7 2 ♦ J 86 4 ♣ 7 3 2

W

N

E

S

— Pass Pass ?

— 1♠ Pass

— Pass Dbl.

1♣ 1NT Rdbl.

Should we pass or run? The opponents have the majority of points (this statement is valid for Polish bidding systems only, where a 1 ♠ response guarantees 7+ HCP). Our two four-card suits look promising in terms of finding a safe haven. This, as usual, requires masterly bidding technique.

W

N

E

S

— Pass Pass 2♣ ?

— 1♠ Pass Dbl.

— Pass Dbl. Pass

1♣ 1NT Rdbl. Pass

2♦ – this sequence shows diamonds and hearts, with the former at least as long as the latter. With 5♥ – 4 ♦ we would now redouble (instead of bidding 2♦).

92) ♠ 8 7 4 3 ♥ — ♦ Q 10 5 ♣ A Q J 9

N-S game

86

W

N

E

S

— Dbl. ?

— 4♥

1♦ Pass

3♥ Pass

According to the theory of bidding, a negative double at the three level is not game forcing, provided we manage to stop in 4 ♦. It therefore does not create a forcing pass situation, especially at this vulnerability. Partner’s pass, it follows, does not mean anything and we are left to decide on our own.

140


The conclusion – simple, commonsense 5 ♣. Will it be effective? Who knows…

93)

Love all

♠ 84 ♥ K 6 3 ♦ Q 10 7 ♣ K Q J 7

6

W

N

E

S

— ?

1♠

Dbl.

4♠

Possible choices: Double – experience tells us this is the only realistic call. Its only drawback is that it will end the auction most of the time. 5♣ – why do I consider such a possibility at all? Because – unless we are playing against incompetent opponents – spade shortness is, as a matter of practice, certain ce rtain in the East hand. Why? Because South jumped to 4♠ at 1/1 vulnerability on 2–4 HCP. This suggests he has a five-card spade fit. Partner’s possible hands: E1

E2

5 ♥ QJ42 ♦ AJ43 ♣ A 10 9 2 ♠

5 ♥ Q542 ♦ AKJ64 ♣ A 10 3 ♠

How many tricks can we set them? On average – two. Is it worth the risk of bidding further? Probably not, although opposite spade void we might be missing slam. All the same, my verdict is double.

141


94) ♠ A 9 6 5 ♥ 6 ♦ Q J6 2 ♣ Q J 10 3

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— ? * **

2♠*

3♠**

Pass

– weak. – 5♥ – 5♣/♦

What can we choose between? 3NT – to play; alternatively, it may be agreed to show an invitation to game game in partner’s minor, but let’s be realistic: who will give up any opportunity to declare his beloved contract… 4♣ – “pass or correct to diamonds”. 4 ♦ – invitation to a heart slam; stronger than direct 4♥. 4 ♥ – to play. 4 ♠ – invitation to a minor suit slam; stronger than 4NT. 4NT – “bid your minor”. So it is once again a question of bidding technique rather than a decision. The conclusion – 4♠.

95) ♠ Q 9 8 ♥ Q 9 3 2 ♦ 87 ♣ K J 8 6

E-W game

W

N

E

S

— 2♥* 2♠ ? * –

— Dbl. 3♥

1 ♠ Pass Pass

Dbl. Pass Pass

transfer to spades, 3-card fit, 7–9 HCP

Opener’s pass over the double was a positive reaction. With a minimum hand he would bid 2 ♠ – i.e., what we have forced him to bid. Another pass – over 3♥ – is forcing and says: “double or bid 3 ♠!” The conclusion – double.

142


96)

Game all

♠ 4 ♥ KQJ864 ♦ J ♣ A Q 9 5

3

W

N

E

S

— 4♥ 5♣ ? *

— Dbl. 5♦

2♣* Pass Dbl.

Pass 4♠ 5♠

– 5+♣ – 4♥/♠ or 6+♣ (Precision).

The problem was first presented to the panel of experts of “Bryd ż” magazine, and later appeared in “Do you bid higher, expert?” by Krzysztof Jassem and Władysław Izdebski. I have an impression of utter confusion among panelists. Try asking a group of experts what hand partner should hold if he jumps to 4 ♥ in response to a 2♣ (Precision) opening and later bids 5♣. They would come back with something like: The minimum hand ♠ — ♥ Q J 10 9 6 5 3 ♦ 62 ♣ Q 9 5 2

The maximum hand ♠ 4 ♥ K Q J 10 6 5 3 ♦ 5 ♣ Q J 10 7

And rightly so, for it is inconceivable for West to bid preemptively with a hand which opposite: E1

♠ A ♥ ♦ ♣

E2

65

A 874 K87642

♠ A ♥ ♦ ♣

976 A6 A K87642

makes small slam (E1) or grand slam ( E2). The proper interpretation of West bidding leads us to the obvious conclusion that, since opener could not rely on any defensive trick in our hand, his double must have been based on three tricks against diamond contract, e.g. with:

143


E

♠ ♥ ♦ ♣

A8 5 K Q9 8 K 10 7 6 3 2

For all that, only 2 out of 19 panelists doubled. 15 passed and the remaining 2 bid 6♣. I advocate a discipline of thinking. What are we expecting from partner when we pass? That he will bid a slam?? With values suitable for doubling 5♦ in the direct seat? All we may expect is that 5♠ will be passed out! “I doubled 5♦, but if you don’t have a single defensive trick, why would I risk doubling 5♠?”, partner will think with a hand similar to the one presented above. The conclusion – double! 97) ♠ — ♥ J 10 9 4 3 ♦ J 7 53 2 ♣ 8 6 4

Love all

W

N

E

S

— Pass ?

— 4♠

1♣ Dbl.

2♠ Pass

The majority of players with whom I discussed this problem regarded pulling the double as something beyond dispute. For me it is not that evident. Let’s picture some of opener’s hands (our spade void suggests a balanced distribution): Favorable ♠ 65 ♥ A K 8 7 ♦ K 8 4 ♣ A K J 10

Average ♠ K 10 5 ♥ A 8 7 ♦ A94 ♣ A K 10 5

Unfavorable ♠ A Q 8 ♥ Q 6 5 2 ♦ K 9 4 ♣ A K J

Exchanging clubs with spades in my hand would change my view, I admit.

144


W

♠ 8 ♥ ♦ ♣

64 J 10 9 4 3 J7532 —

With such hand pulling the double would be obvious. With my actual hand I’m closer to a pass than 4NT.

98)

E-W game

♠ A9 ♥ A Q 8 5 ♦ 10 6 4 ♣ A K Q 10

W

N

E

S

1♣ ?

2♠

Pass

4♠

The majority of experts who removed the double in the previous problem, now chose to double. However, for the sake of consistency they should now pass. If they passed then, now they should double! Is it universally valid advice? Well, a 100% effectiveness is impossible, it is frequency that counts. 99) ♠ AK ♥ Q 9 2 ♦ K8 ♣ A K J

Game all

10 3 2

W

N

E

S

1♣ 3NT ?

2♠ Pass

Pass Pass

3♠ Dbl.

The double asks for a non-spade lead, South should also have clubs stopped. Against solid opponents I run to 4♣, otherwise I pass.

145


100) ♠ 8 7 3 ♥ AK ♦ A K 8 ♣ J 9 5 4

E-W game

W 2

N

E

S

1NT 2♠ Dbl.* 3 ♠ ? * – negative, no spade shortness.

The problem is slightly provocative. At first glance it seems we have nothing extra above our opening. On closer examination, the hand provides a fabulous number of tricks. Besides, we have three trumps, which combined with partner’s probable doubleton (negative double after 1NT opening and RHO’s intervention should promise a doubleton in the doubled suit so that partner can pass for penalties). The opponents often interrupt our bidding with a feeling of impunity. It’s worth a risk from time to time to show them they won’t get away easily with something like this. The conclusion – double.

146

Hand_Evaluation__Bidding_Decisions1.pdf

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