Bread and Butter, Anyone?
What is this West hand worth when East opens 1C, West responds 1H, and East rebids 1NT (15-17)?
Board 18 from Thursday 8/08/2019
Dealer E NS Vul
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64
A4
AT543
J542West’s shape and point count suggests that game in hearts is a possibility, so West should invite game, and the way most people play it, a jump rebid in responder’s suit is invitational. That should also be the case when partner has rebid 1NT.
When West does bid 3H, should East accept or pass? Many Easts would not be sure just how forcing West’s jump rebid is and would take out insurance by raising to game ... just in case partner is forcing. I believe East’s support is good enough to go to game.
The play in 4H should be fairly easy but not every West made 4H at our club. Declarer should be able to draw trumps and lead diamonds up to the QJ62 twice and when the ace and king are split, the tenth trick comes without the spades needing to fall. Replay this board for yourself by clicking here. As you will see, although there is no need to make four spade tricks, Norths might make declarer's life a little more comfortable by leading their doubleton spade, IF declarer can diagnose that opening lead.
