What & Why (17)

Submitted by Vil Gravis on Wed, 30/06/2021 - 16:43

A continuing theme. This was another problem that came up, with a similar theme to earlier. This one was somewhat different because declarer did not have the luxury of being able to duck the first round of the danger suit. Let me show you the two hands as they were this time. Similar, but quite different.

1. TEAMS. Dealer E NS Vul
North

AJ87
763
QJ
KJ65

South
KT9
AQ
K9652
QT9

EAST opens a weak 2H
Here are some things to consider.
1. Would you have bid 2NT or passed? Or doubled?
2. If you had doubled the 2H opening, what should your partner then bid?
3. If you passed and partner then doubled, would you then bid 3NT or something else?

Listen to Ross: “2NT. A bit light maybe but I don’t like to double with only three spades.” I personally agree with the 2NT bid but does double present such a big problem? Even if partner jumps to 4S with only a four card suit, that should not play badly. Maybe even better than 3NT.

Again, there was quite a difference of opinion between the Open players and the ‘advancers’. Most of the latter will double, because they ‘have a good opening bid’. The open players will be reluctant to do so for two reasons: only three spades and partner can not know about the double heart stop. But bidding 2NT also has its problems, you are, after all, vulnerable and could land in a spot of bother if partner has nothing of note. Passing therefore also has some merit, just listen to Peter: “ What are the chances of missing game if I pass? Unlikely unless partner can make a move if West also passes”. Yes, that is a sensible take on it. Here, after you pass and partner doubles, you can bid 3NT, but there is, then, a better bid available, 3H. If partner has nothing in hearts, partner will bid 3S, confirming that she has a four card spade suit and no heart stopper. Then, it is over to you whether you bid 3NT or 4S. Which do you think is better?

Take a look at the two hands now and decide which contract you prefer, 3NT or 4S, and why. Then decide how you will play 3NT when North leads the H9.