BRIDGE

BRIDGE

Both vulnerable. East deals.

NORTH

xK Q 5 4

uA 10 6 3

vQ J

w10 8 7

WEST EAST

x10 9 7 6 x8

uJ 9 uK 8 7 2

v9 5 4 2 v8 7 6

wJ 4 3 wA K Q 6 2

SOUTH

xA J 3 2

uQ 5 4

vA K 10 3

w9 5

The bidding:

EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH

1w Dbl Pass 2w

Pass 2v Pass 2u

Pass 2x Pass 4x

Pass Pass Pass

Opening lead: Three of w

This is another deal from Eddie Kantar’s award-winning “Thinking Bridge” series.

North’s two-club response, a cue-bid, to South’s take-out double is the strongest bid he can make. With two four-card majors, it can show as little as 9 high-card points. Otherwise, it shows 11 or more in high cards and is forcing to suit agreement. After a cue-bid, the partnership bids four-card suits in ascending order looking for a 4-4 fit. After South bids two spades, North raises to game — a raise after a cue-bid is invitational. The one who knows goes!

The lead is normal — low from any three cards (excluding the ace) when leading an unsupported suit. East cashes three top clubs.

As declarer, it is mega- important to watch the spot card that is led plus the follow-up card in that suit. Here the three of clubs was led followed by the four (low-high) indicating at least one more club. Therefore, it is safe for South to trump the third club low. Had the four of clubs been led followed by the three, the lead figures to be from a doubleton, and South should trump high. After ruffing the club, trumps are drawn and 10 tricks are available: five spades (including the ruff), four diamonds and the ace of hearts.

For more information about “Thinking Bridge” and other Kantar writings, go to www.kantarbridge.com.

2013 Tribune Media Services