BRIDGE

BRIDGE

Q. Neither vulnerable, as South, you hold:

xA Q 9 5 uK 7 4 vQ 8 6 wK 8 3

Right-hand opponent opens one diamond. What call would you make?

A. A takeout double with 4-3-3-3 distribution is usually a bad idea. We can start to think about it when we have 14 or more high-card points. Double.

Q. East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

x6 uA J 9 8 4 2 v7 wQ 9 6 4 2

SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST

2u Pass Pass 2x

?

What call would you make?

A. Hands with 6-5 distribution have incredible potential when they catch a fit. We have to take a risk occasionally to get this across to partner. Bid three clubs.

Q. Both vulnerable, as South, you hold:

xA K Q J 8 7 u6 5 vK J 4 wA 2

SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST

1x 2u Dbl- 3u

?

-Negative, values with no clear bid

What call would you make?

A. Even with two heart losers, partner should have enough in the minors to give us a play for game. Bid four spades.

Q. North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold:

xK 7 2 uQ vK Q 2 wK Q 9 6 3 2

SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST

1w Pass 1u Pass

?

What call would you make?

A. Had partner responded in any other strain, we could consider a jump to three clubs. It is not an asset to be short in partner’s suit. Two clubs is enough.

Q. East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

xA 6 uK Q 5 4 3 v10 2 wK 5 4 2

Partner opens three diamonds and right-hand opponent passes. What call would you make?

A. There is no reason to think that your side has a game. Pass and hope you get to play it there.

Q. Both vulnerable, as South, you hold:

xJ 3 uQ 9 3 2 vA Q 4 2 wQ 9 6

NORTH EAST SOUTH WEST

1v Pass 1u Pass

1NT Pass ?

What call would you make?

A. Forget about your diamond fit. No trump is by far the most likely game. Bid two no trump.

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