BALANCING - Auction Reopening
When we are
going to play with a unknow partner we normally make some basic agreemments
about the system but rarely say something about conventions to reopen the bidding
(balancing).
So when
we are in 4th position and dealer opens in suit at level one and two passes
are followed, we realize that no agreements to balacing was made!
In fact many players suppose that 2/1 in balancing position is the same
system after opponent open in first position, maybe because they never read "The
Complete Book on BALANCING in Contract Bridge" by Mike Lawrence published first
time in 1981 and reprinted many times.
Considerations: In the classic Lawrence's book the reopen with a cuebdi is the most
strong reopen possible and the reopen with 2nt is 20-21 balanced hand, but in modern
competive bridge's systems the Michaels Cuebid for weak 2 suits hands, the
unusual 2nt for weak 2 suits and the
modern Leapping Michaels with extensions for strong 2 suits are dominant
conventions in these days; Thus we will change some good Lawrence's
recommendation in this proposed convention.
Furthermore, if opponent stopped the bidding in level 1 or 2, or even in level 3, this is also
a situation where exist possible balance in the 40 high card points between NS
and EW, maybe 20-20 or 21-19. Thus we need some agreements with partner to
reopen the bidding in a way that we know what we are bidding, the understanding
between partners is the more important thing for partnership's success.
1) REOPENING AT FORTH SEAT - opponent opens 1 in suit
and after two passes it is our turn to bid
Rule#1-
To show 2 weak suits in the reopening we use the Michaels convention and the
unusual nt convention, both with brazilian modifications, and to show 2 strong suits
up to 4 losers we use the Leaping Michaels convention, thus it is essential read michaelsBR.
What Michaels you prefer: the traditional or the brazilian michaels?
We recommend the brazilian michaels - need agreement with partner!
Michaels Cuebid
After any suit open the reopen with a cuebid shows 2 weak suits: EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH 1
pass pass 2
=> weak 2 suit 7-10 hcp 5major-5+
QJ1092 4 KQ1062
3 or
3 KJ874 AJ963
73
1 pass pass 2
> weak 2 suits 7-10 hcp 5major-5+
AJ873 42 -
K109842 or
J3 AJ764 3
QJ1098
1
pass pass 2 => traditional michaels 55m+
7-10 hcp
QJ1092 - J108762
K2 or
AQJ43 4 63
Q9873
1 pass pass 2 => traditional michaels 55m+
7-10 hcp
3 KJ953 82
AJ982 or
J AJ1064 QJ10854
3
Unusual nt
modified
After a major open the reopen in 2nt shows 2 weak minors and after a minor open
the reopen with 2nt shows 2 weak majors (7-10 hcp):
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH 1
pass pass 2nt
=> weak 2 majors suit 7-10 hcp 5-5+
QJ1092 KJ984 62
3 or
AQ653 J87432 3
7
1 pass pass 2nt
> weak 2 majors suits 7-10 hcp 5-5+
AJ1073 1098742 -
K2 or
QJ983 KQ1064 32
8
1
pass pass 2nt =>
weak 2 minors suit 55+
7-10 hcp
QJ1092 - J108762
K2 or
AQJ43 4 63
Q9873
1 pass pass 2nt =>
weak 2 minors suits 55+
7-10 hcp
3 Q3 QJ1087
AJ982 or
J 3 KJ10854
AJ873
Leaping Michaels
After any suit open the reopen in
jump to level 4 shows 2 strong suits, up to 4 losers, if the bid is a
cuebid or if the bid is 4
or 4:
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass 4 => strong 2 majors suits up to 4 losers
KQJ103 AKJ102 82
- or
AK1092 AKQ84 J3
2
1
pass pass 4 => strong 5major-5+
up to 4 losers
KQJ103 42 AKJ982
- or
3 AQJ103 AKQJ83
2 1 pass pass
4 => strong 2 majors suits up to 4 losers
KQJ103 AKJ102 2
3 or
AK1092 AKQ43 -
Q102
1 pass pass
4 => strong 2
suits up to 4 loserrs 5M-5+
AKQJ3 4 -
KQ10982 or
J3 AKQ104 3
AQJ108
1
pass pass 4 => strong 2 minors suits up to 4 losers
9 4 AKQJ2
AQJ987 or
3 4 AKJ93
AKQ973
1
pass pass 4 => strong 2 suits up to 4 losers 55+
KQJ109 4 J2
AKQ95 or
AQJ103 4 3
AKQ973
1
pass pass 4 => strong 2 suits up to 4 losers 55+
AQJ109 4 AKQJ2
K3 or
AKQ93 43 3
AKQ973 1 pass
pass 4 => strong 2 minors suit up to 4 losers
- 95 AKJ107
AKQJ82 or
J 4 AKQJ8
AK10973
1 pass
pass 4 => strong 2 suits up to 4 losers 55+
3 AKJ95 2
AKQJ82 or
J KQJ104 8
AK9732
1 pass pass
4 => strong 2 suits up to 4 losers 55+
3 AKJ95 2
AKQJ82 or
J AKJ104 AKQJ8
J3
Rule#2-
A reopen with double should should be made with 10+ hcp, but with a good shape like
4441 - singleton in Opener suit - it is acceptable even with 8 hcp, Thus, advancer
(partner of the Reopener) should be careful to not overbid supposing Reopener have
a regular double with 12+ hcp. Exemples: EAST
SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 Pass Pass
?
a)
A743
87
K643
A85 => Double
b)
A74
84
AK54 K854 => Double
c)
A843
53
AK643
K74 => Double
d)
A763
854
K74
A73 => Double e)
QJ83
-
107643
AJ104 => Double
f)
K1063 8
K87 Q1073 => Double g)
KQ93
8 KQ97 AKQJ => Double
h)
K102 AKJ KQJ8
KJ8
=> double
i)
J1073 A4 AKQ83
AK9
=> double
J)
QJ10 KJ5 KJ
AKQ82 =>
double
k)
AQJ9 AJ10 QJ83
AQ7
=> double
Rule#3- the reopening in jump shows a good middle strength hand around 15 hcp
with
6/7 cards.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH 1
pass pass 2/2/2
=>14-16 hcp 6 cards not forcing 1
pass pass 2/2/3
=>14-16 hcp 6 cards not forcing 1
pass pass 2/3/3
=>14-16 hcp 6 cards not forcing 1
pass pass 3/3/3
=>14-16 hcp 6 cards not forcing Note1:
when the reopening is a jump in a minor suit this suit must be a good invitation
for 3nt, so need be solid 6/7 cards with AK at top and
good middle cards like AKJ98xx or AKQ109x, without AK just overcall.
Examples of jump overcall 14-16 hcp in reopening: EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass 2
=> Ax J104 AKQ10962
4 1
pass pass 2
=> K72 AJ10954 AK2
6
1
pass pass 2
=> J1098542 AK KQJ
2
1
pass pass 2
=> J7 KJ109543 AKQ
6
1
pass pass 2
=> KQ10972 K3 KQ2
K4
1
pass pass 3
=> Q107 K3 2
AKQ8762 1
pass pass 2
=> QJ109872 4 QJ2
AKJ
1
pass pass 3
=> Q82 7 Ax
AKJ107642
1
pass pass 3
=> KJ4 3 AKQJ985
J4
1
pass pass 3
=> 8 KJ7 Q3
AKJ98762
1
pass pass 3
=> - K94 AKQ98542
Q54
1
pass pass 3
=> 4QJ98432 AKJ
A4
Rule#4-
the reopening with a double jump can be: a) a preemptive hand with 7+ cards
7-10 hcp with A or K at top like AQ109xxx or KQ108xxx or KJ1098xxx or AJ98xxx,
or AK109xxx if bided at level 3; b) if bided at level 4 can be
Leaping Michaels -
2 strong suits 6/5 cards where the minor is always more long or equal the major
- with 4 or less losers; c) if bided in 4
or 4 is to play
with 5 or less losers, but if the open suit was 1
then 4 shows strong 2 minors suits (5-5)+
and if the open was 1
then 4 shows
strong 2 minors suits (5-5)+;
d) cuebid at level 3 asking for stopper bidding 3nt otherwise next suit:
Opener Advancer Responder Overcaller
1
pass pass
3 <= asking for Clubs stopper
1
pass pass
3
<= asking for Diamonds stopper 1
pass pass
3
<= asking for Hearts stopper 1
pass pass
3
<= asking for Spades stopper
Examples of reopening with double jump EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass pass 3
ask partner bid 3nt with stopper in Clubs Ax QJ8 AKQ97632
-
1 pass pass 3
weak
=> 3 J104 AK109762
94 1 pass pass 3
weak
=> 97 AQ109543 K102
6
1 pass pass 3
weak
=> KJ1098532 Q4 K4
6 1 pass pass
4
Leaping Michaels
both
majors (5-5)+ 1 pass pass
4
Leaping Michaels
5+(5
or 5) 1
pass pass 4
to play 7/8 cards with 5 or less losers 1
pass pass 4
to play 7/8 cards with 5 or less losers
1 pass pass 3
=>ask partner bid 3nt with stopper in
Ax KJ8 -
AKJ97632
1 pass pass 3
weak
=> Q7 KJ109543 Q102
6
1 pass pass 3
weak
=> KQJ9872 43 2
K64
1
pass pass 4
Leaping Michaels
5+(5
or 5)+
1
pass pass 4
Leaping Michaels
both majors (5-5)+ 1
pass pass 4
to play 7/8 cards with 5 or less losers 1
pass pass 4
to play 7/8 cards with 5 or less losers
1 pass pass 3
=>ask partner bid 3nt with stopper in
Ax 4 KQ
AKJ97632
1 pass pass 3
weak
=> AJ109872 4 QJ2
64
1 pass pass 4
Leaping Michaels
5+5
1 pass pass 4
Leaping Michaels
5+5
1 pass pass 4
Leaping Michaels
both minors (5-5)+ 1
pass pass 4
to play 7/8 cards with 5 or less losers
1 pass pass 3
=>ask partner bid 3nt with stopper in
- A4 QJ9
AKQ97632
1
pass pass 4
Leaping Michaels
5+5
1
pass pass
4
Leaping Michaels
5+5
1 pass pass 4
to play
=> - KQJ64324 QJ98
4
1 pass pass 4
Leaping Michaels
both minors (5-5)+
Rule#5- if opponent open in a minor (1/1)
followed by two passes the reopen in 1nt is weak, just a balanced hand with
12-14 hcp with a stopper in the Opener'a suit. The Stayman and transfer to
majors are on, but 2nt is a invitation with 11 or 12 hcp with good middle cards
like 9 e 10; Transfer for the other minor is 2
and Reopener bids the other minor if like with maximum and bids 2nt if not like, but if the
minor opened was Clubs Reopener bidding 3
shows not like Diamonds and has good 5
cards, then his partner can pass with 3+ cards. The bid in 2nt by reopener's
partner is not transfer but a invitation with 11-12 hcp considering the
importance of middle cards.
Note2: Find a fit is an important objective in
the auction, thus with 4-4
or 4-3 in the
majors and 12-14 hcp the hand is more for double than for bid 1nt, but with a 4-2 or 3-2 or 3-3 in majors the
hand is more for 1nt bid if it has a stopper in Opener's suit.
Note3: many players reopen in 1nt without a
stopper in Opener suit, but in some ocasions they lose 5+ tricks in the Opener's suit, so Qxx or Jxxx
in Opener suit are sadisfactory stoppers for
reopening in 1nt. Examples: EAST SOUTH
WEST NORTH
1 pass pass 1nt => 12-14 hcp balanced QJ3K4 KQJ2
J1094 or Q972 A10 AJ10
Q984
1 pass pass 1nt => 12-14 hcp balanced AJ3KJ4 QJ92
Q94 or Q92 K10 AJ7
KJ1084
Rule#6- if opponent opens in a major (1/1)
followed by two passes the reopen in 1nt need have more strength and so shows 15-17
hcp in a balanced hand with at least 1,5 stopper in the Opener's major suit. All system used is on, so 2nt is
a transfer to 3
and Reopener bids 3
if don't like and 3
if like, 2
is transfer to
3 and Reopener bids
2nt if don't like and 3
if like. Considering that the invitation is asking for maximum a good way to
protect the information of reopener suits is just making a tranfer in 2
for 3 because if
reopener is maximum he bids 3
and then advancer bids 3nt, but if reopener is minimum then he bids 2nt and then
advancer just pass.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass pass 1nt => 15-17 hcp balanced QJ3 K1094 KQJ2
A9 or Q97 AJ6 KQJ10
K42
1
pass pass 1nt => 15-17 hcp balanced KJ93 K102 QJ10
KQ9 or AQ J75 A107
KQJ104
Rule#7-
after any suit open followed by
two passes the reopen in 3nt is to play based in a long and solid minor with a stopper
in the opener's suit and 7+ sure tricks in the hand.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass 3nt => to play
A3 J4 AKQ1082
K2
1 pass pass 3nt => to play
K3 J A9
AKJ97532 1
pass pass 3nt => to play
AK3 KJ4 AKQJ82
10
1
pass pass 3nt => to play A3 K4 Q2
AKQ10942
1) SUMMARY OF THE BIDS IN REOPENING IN FOURTH POSITION
1.1 Sequences after 1
open
followed by two passes
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass pass ?
pass => probable good 4+
and short in majors up to 11 hcp
double => tend to promise 4-3 in majors with 10+ points
Note4: not Vul we can
also reopen with double having only 8 hcp with favorable shape like 4441 or 5431
if we are short in Opener's suit, so partner must avoid pass in Reopener's double hoping
find sure tricks.
1 => normal overcall 8-14 hcp - indication for lead
- 4+ cards
1 =>
normal overcall 8-14 hcp - indication for lead - 4+ cards
1 => normal overcall 8-14 hcp
- indication for lead - 4+ cards
1nt => 12-14 hcp tend to deny 4-3 in majors - show stopper in
all system is on but 2
is transfer to 3
and 2nt is invitation
2 => brazilian
michaels 5major-5+
KQJ64 4 QJ953
J2 or
3 K10984 AJ8543
2
2
=> 6+
with 14-16 hcp - invitation 3nt:
QJ9K94AKQ9832
2
=> 6+ with
14-16 hcp - invitation 4:
K3KQJ984AJ1052
2
=> 6+ with
14-16 hcp - invitation 4:
QJ109763AQ5AJ2
2nt => weak 2 majors suits 7-10 hcp
KQJ64 QJ9832 3
2 or
AJ1053 KJ1084 43
2
3 => special
bid - ask to partner bid 3nt with
stopper
QJ3AJ9AKQJ9862
/ Q105A2AKQJ10872
-
3/3/3
preemptive bid - 7+ cards - 7-10 hcp - with A/K at top
in a suit like: AQ98432 or AK75432 or KQ98732
3nt => to play - 7+
solid suit and stopper in
AK3 J4 AKQ1082
K2 /
J AJ4
AKQJ862
A2
4 => (5-5)+
strong 2 suits 4 or less losers -
Leaping Michaels
KQJ8743AKQ10685-
/ AKQJ5KQJ106J4
7 4
=> 5+5major strong
2 suits 4 or less losers Leaping Michaels AKQ1066KQJ10835
/ J7KQJ106AKJ1092
-
4/4
=> to play - long suit 7/8 cards 5 losers or
less
3KQJ10654KQ1082
/ AKJ109873K104Q2
-
5
=> to play - special
hand distributional Q3AK9AKQJ8652-
1.2 Sequences after 1
open
followed by two passes EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass pass ?
pass => probable good 4+
and short in majors < 12 hcp
double => promise 4-3 in majors with 10+ points
1
=> normal overcall 8-14 hcp can be only 4 cards
1
=> normal overcall 8-14 hcp can be only 4 cards
1nt => 12-14 probable 3-3 in majors promise stopper in
all
system is on but 2
is transfer to 3
and 2nt is invitation
2
=> normal overcall 9-14 hcp - indication for lead
2
=>
brazilian michaels 5major-5+
KQJ64 4 J2
QJ953
or
3 K10984
2
AJ8543
2
=> 6+ with
14-16 hcp - example:
J3 AQJ10976 2
AK4
2
=> 6+ with
14-16 hcp - example: AKQ943 K4 x4
QJ2
2nt => weak 2 majors suits 7-10 hcp
3
=> solid 6+ with 14-16
hcp - example:J3AK62AKJ9832
3
=>
special bid - ask to partner bid 3nt with
stopper in
QJ3AJ94
AKQJ986
/ Q105A2-AKQJ10872
3/3
=>
preemptive 7+ cards less than 11 hcp with A/K at top
like: AQ98432 or
AK75432 or KQ98732
3nt => to play - normally 6+
solid closed suit and stopper in
AK3 J4 K10
AKJ10872
/ A3 J4
A2
AKQJ432
4 =>
6-5major strong
2 suits 4 or less losers Leaping Michaels AKQ106 6 5 KQJ1083
/ J7 KQJ1064 -
AKJ1092
4
=>
Leaping Michaels
strong
2 majors suits - 6-(5-5)+
AK10953 QJ10942 -
5
/
KQJ853 AJ10543 -
5
4/4
=> to play - distributional hand and 5 or less losers
6 KQJ107654 -
QJ102 /AKJ10973 K10
2
Q92
5
=> to play -
A93 4 10
AKJ1087632
1.3 Sequences after 1
open
followed by two passes EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass pass ?
pass => probable good 4+
and short in Spades up to 11 hcp
double => tend to promise 3+
and 10+ hcp
1 => normal overcall 8-14 hcp
- indication for lead - 4+ cards
1nt => 15-17 hcp tend to deny 4
cards - shows 1,5 stopper in
all partnership conventions for 1nt open are active
2
=> normal overcal 8-14 hcp 5+
indication for lead
2
=>
normal overcal 8-14 hcp 5+
indication for lead
2
=>
michaels cuebid 55m+
7-10 hcp
KQ954 4 KJ932
J9
or
AQ1093 - Q87
K9764
2
=> 6+ with
14-16 hcp - good invitation to game
2nt =>
weak 2 minors suits 7 - 10 hcp 3
=> solid 6+ with 14-16
hcp - example:J3AK62AKJ9832
3
=> solid 6+ with 14-16
hcp - example:K936AKJ9832A5
3 => special
bid - ask to partner bid 3nt with
stopper
QJ39AKQJ986A3
/ K1052A8AKQJ1072
3
=> preemptive bid - 7+ cards - 7-10 hcp - need A/K at top
3nt => to play - solid minor suit with stopper in
A3 K3 AKQ10842
Q2 /
J3 A4
K3
AKQJ862
4 => 6-5
strong
2 suits 4 or less losers - Leaping Michaels AKQ106 6 5 KQJ1083
/ J7 KQJ1064 -
AKJ1092
4
=> 6-5
strong
2 suits 4 or less losers - Leaping Michaels
KQJ1082
- KQJ987 J
/ AKJ532 - 42
KQ9653 4
=>
(5-5)+
Leaping Michaels
strong
2 minors suits
4
- AK10953
QJ10942
/
4
-
KQJ853
AK10543
4
=> to play - 7/8 cards and good suit
KQJ10652 4KQ1082
/ AKJ1098734QJ2
6
5
=> to play -special
hand -long suit
73 - KQ10 AKJ97652
5
=> to play -special
hand -long suit
x 4 KQJ107654 AK2
1.4 Sequences after 1
open
followed by two passes EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass pass ?
pass => probable good 4+
and short in up to 11 hcp
double => tend to promise 4
10+ hcp
1nt => 15-17 hcp tend to deny 4
cards - shows 1,5 stopper in
all partnership conventions for 1nt open are active
2
=> normal overcal 8-14 hcp 5+
indication for lead
2
=>
normal overcal 8-14 hcp 5+
indication for lead
2
=>
normal overcal 8-14 hcp 5+
indication for lead 2
=> michaels cuebid 5-5m+
7-10 hcp
4
KQJ64 K9763
J3
or -
AJ1093 Q8
QJ8654
2nt =>
2 weak minors suits 7-10 hcp 3
=> solid 6+ with 14-16
hcp - example:J3AK62AKJ9832
3 => 6+ with
14-16 hcp - good invitation to game
5 KQJ1086 KJ9
A104 or
- QJ108643 AJ9
AQ4
3
=> special
bid - ask to partner bid 3nt with
stopper
QJ39AKQJ986A3
/ K1052A8AKQJ1072
3nt => to play - long and
solid with and stopper in
3 KJ4 AKQ1082
A2 /
J A4
AKQJ862
QJ2
4 => 6-5 strong
2 suits 4 or less losers - Leaping Michaels 4
AKQ106 5 KQJ1083
/ J7 KQJ1064 -
AKJ1092
4
=>
Leaping Michaels
strong
2 minors suits (6-5)
4
AK10953
-
QJ10942
/
- KQJ853 AK10543
5
4
=> to play - 7/8 cards and good suit
4
AKJ10543 K108 K3
/ - KJ1076542 QJ2
K2 4
=>
(5-5)+
Leaping Michaels
strong
2 minors suits
4
- AK10953
QJ10942
/
4
-
KQJ853
AK10543
5
=> to play - special
hand - long suit
-K4KQ10AKJ97652
5
=> to play - special
hand - long suit
-K4KQ1098432AK2
1.5 HOW TO SHOW BALANCED 15-17/18-19 HCP AFTER
MINOR OPEN
Suppose South opens in a minor suit followed by two passes and East reopens with a
double, if South (Opener) pass and West (Advancer) bids a major in level one then East's second bid in 1nt
means 15-17 hcp and in 2nt means 18-19 hcp, denying 4 cards support to the major bided.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1
pass pass
double pass 1major pass
1nt => 15-17=>
AQ QJ4 KJx KJ109x
/A9 Q94 KJx KQJ9x
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1
pass pass
double pass 1major
pass
2nt =>18-19 hcp:
AQ3QJ4KJxAJ109
/AKQ94KJ10xKQJ9
Note5: when the reopen is double if partner
bids a major that fits 4 cards in our hand you raise (support) to level 2 with up to 16 hcp,
raise to level 3 with 17-18 hcp and cuebid with 19-20 hcp.
1.6 HOW TO SHOW BALANCED 18-19 HCP AFTER A MAJOR OPEN
Suppose
South open 1
and after two passes East reopens with a double, if South pass and West bid 1, East's second bid in 1nt means 18-19 hcp (with less East reopen with 1nt or
pass in 1). If South opens with 1
and East reopens with a double, after West bids a suit at level 2 East's
second bid in 2nt shows 18-19 hcp.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass
double pass 1 pass
1nt <= 18-19 hcp balanced hand
A93 KJ4 KJx AK109
/K98
AJ9 K10x AK109x
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass
double pass 2/2/2
pass
2nt => 18-19 hcp balanced hand
AQ2 QJ4 KJx AJ109
/ K1097 K94 AK KQJ9
Note6: After the reopen with double, in case West bids 1
after 1 open, East with
18-19 hcp and 4
cards support could cuebid 2
to show 18-19 hcp, but with a 4333 hand also 1nt bid is good because 1
in some cases
can be a negative bid with 3 cards and then the lead comes to the strong hand.
SUMMARY TO
REOPEN WITH BALANCED HAND 12 - 14 hcp
- reopen with 1NT after minor open (denying major)
15 - 17 hcp - reopen 1NT after major open (denying other major)
18 - 19 hcp - reopen with double and after bid NT at level
20 - 21 hcp - reopen with double and jump to 2nt or 3nt
TEST YOURSELF
Supposing the auction goes: 1
pass pass ?
How do you bid in reoping position with:
a)
2
AKQ75
AQJ1093
2
Suggestion:
bidding 4
shows 5-5
and promises up to 4 losers, but isn't GF.
Advancer decides: pass. 4
or
5.
b) KJ1032
9
AQ10
A952
Suggestion: pass - probably they have have a fit in
and
even your partner having 9-10 hcp, opponent playing in 1 will be a good contract for our partnership. We can't double or bid
1nt with singleton
so we
must pass.
c) K1073 Q94
A108
Q82
Suggestion: pass, considering that reopen in 1nt for major need 15-17 hcp pass is the
more prudent bid in this 4333.
d) 3 AQJ974
Q108
Q82
Suggestion: 2,
considering that a 3
shows 14-16 hcp, but if opener rebid 2
you with singleton in Opener's suit and no Vul could bid 3
that
is still a weak hand with 6 cards, so your partner will not double
possible 3
or bid 4
after your rebid.
e) 1073
AK4
Q1095
Q82
Suggestion: if you are non Vul you can double - your partner must have 8+ hcp
and playing in level 2 with 7 trumps in
will
not be a disaster, but Vul pass is a prudent choise.
f) 92
94
AKQJ93 A82
Suggestion: 3,
an invitation to 3nt, if partner have stopper in
and 8+ hcp 3nt can be made.
g) KJ7
K94
AQ10
AK82
Suggestion: double then bid 2nt if partner bids 2
or 2,
but bid jump to 3nt if partner bids 2
or 1nt.
h) 9
9754
AJ108
J1082
Suggestion: pass quickly, but if you had a K
in the place of 9
you can reopen with double based in this shape.
i) KJ7
K104
AJ10 A1098
Suggestion: bid 1nt showing 15-17 hcp and let your partner decide.
j) 9
AKJ1094
AK10
Q102
Suggestion: double and if partner bids a minor then jump to 3, if you bid 3
directly could be a underbid; If partner bids 2
or 1nt jump to game in 4.
k) 97 94
AK1098
J982
Suggestion: bid 2,
pass will be "chicken"!
l) 972 942
AQ1098
Q9
Suggestion: pass, a 2
bid with too many losers is danger with no good distributional hand because
partner could compete at level 3 if opponent bid 2
or rebid 2.
Note7:
It is very important that a passed hand with 10-12 hcp be tolerant with Reopener
double and don't overbid jumping to 3nt or pass in the reopen double supposing good high cards points
in Reopener's hand. The bidding must be cooperative because Reopener can
just have a distributional weak hand around 10 or les hcp.
2- AFTER A REOPEN IN FOUTN POSITION HOW SHOULD
REOPENER'S PARTNER (ADVANCE) BIDS TO SHOW HIS STRENGTH:
IF THE REOPEN IS MADE WITH A DOUBLE, THEN:
a) 1nt bid shows 1,5 stopper with no 4 cards major and 10-12 hcp; EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 1nt <=
10-12 hcp balanced
Q72 J104
AQ10
QJ98
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 1nt <=
10-12 hcp balanced
Q7 J104
AQ10
QJ982
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 1nt <=
10-12 hcp balanced
Q7 K1084
QJ108
KJ9
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 1nt <=
10-12 hcp balanced
QJ97 J4
A109
QJ92
----------------------------------------------------------------------
b) pass means good 5+ cards (not 976543) in Opener's suit and hand like 5332
with 10-12 hcp;
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
pass <=
Q7 J104
AQ7
QJ982
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
pass <=
QJ7 94
AK1092
Q98
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
pass <=
9 QJ10842
AJ10
J102
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
pass <=
AQJ82 94
A10
J1098
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
c) 2nt shows 13-14 hcp with 2 stoppers in Opener's suit,
so if reopen has been done with 9-10 hcp and 4441 Reopener should pass; EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 2nt <=
10-12 hcp balanced
Q72 K104
AQ10
QJ98
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 2nt <=
10-12 hcp balanced
A7 J104
AQ10
QJ982
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 2nt <=
10-12 hcp balanced
K7 K1084
QJ108
KJ9
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 2nt <=
10-12 hcp balanced
AJ97 J4
A109
QJ92
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
d) the bid of next suit shows weak hand and can be done with only 3 cards when
partner has low 4+ cards in Opener's suit. EAST SOUTH WEST
NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 1 <=
can be
3 cards J87 J104
K105
10842
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
1
<=
can be 3 cards
Q7 J104
98642
Q98
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
1
<=
can be 3 cards
K72 10842
1083
Q94
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 2
<=
can be 3 cards
97432 K4
Q94
952
------------------------------------------------------------------------
e) bidding a suit in jump to level 2 means 5+ cards and 10-12 hcp but in
principle is a suit not recommended for overcal with only one top honor like K9xxx or Q10xxx
or J10xxx;
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 2 <=
5+
10-12 hcp => J87 A10
Q10765
QJ2
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
2
<=
5+
10-12 hcp => Q76543 Q4
2
AQ98
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
2
<=
5+
10-12 hcp => J8732 42
AK3
K94
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 3
<=
5+
10-12 hcp => AQ2 1087543
4
A92
------------------------------------------------------------------------- f) cuebid by a passed hand is a invitation to game (after minor
open shows both majors and after a major open shows 4 cards in the other major)
- in principle without stopper in Opener's suit having 4333 or 4432 with 10-13
hcp - so reopener sign-off the auction bidding his 4 cards suit at level 2 or do a GF
bidding at level 3. EAST SOUTH WEST
NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 2 <=
shows both majors =>
AQ87 AJ104
5
10542
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
2
<=
shows both majors =>
Q753 K1094
92
AQ9
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass
2
<=
shows 4
with 10-13 hcp => KJ102 84
K983
A94
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass pass double pass 2
<=
shows 4
with 10-13 hcp =>
A6 KQ104
J9842
K9
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
g) jump to game is not a recommended
bid unless with 16+ hcp. EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass pass double pass 3nt
<=
AKQ2 942
974
A52
this jump to game is danger, if partner's reopen was weak with singleton Spades in 4441 10-9 hcp -
it is not easy make 9 tricks,
a reasonable bid is not pass but 2nt allowing partner to pass.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
h) IF REOPEN WAS 1NT (12-14 HCP) AFTER A
MINOR OPEN
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1 pass pass
1nt pass 2nt
<= Q102K942A1084Q92
or Q102J42AJ84QJ92
South with balanced hand having 11-12
hcp and good intermediate cards do
invitation biding 2nt.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1 pass pass
1nt pass 3nt
<=
Q1072K9A108K109
or J102 K942
AJ10
QJ10
South with balanced hand having 12+ hcp prefer not do Stayman that will also
informe opponents of North hand bid 3nt.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------- i) IF REOPEN WAS 1NT (15-17
HCP) AFTER A
MAJOR OPEN EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1 pass pass
1nt pass 2nt
<= A102Q94104Q10982
or Q102J1042AJ108494
South with balanced hand having 8-9 hcp and good 5 cards minor do
invitation biding 2nt.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1 pass pass
1nt pass 3nt
<=
Q1072K109A8J1093
or J1092 K984
A10
QJ9
South with balanced hand having 10+ hcp prefer contract of 9 tricks and bid 3nt.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
j) IF REOPEN IS MADE IN SUIT AT LEVEL 1
Reopener's partner then bids: - pass, no support and less than 10 hcp, and no
long suit; - without
support and stopper bid another suit 6+ cards up to 10 hcp; - 1nt with 9-11 hcp showing stopper, denies support
-invitation 3nt;
- 2nt with 12-13 hcp showing stoppers, denies support -invitation 3nt;
- support at level 2 means 3 cards and shows 6-9 hcp; - support in jump need
4 cards and also shows 6-9 hcp;
- cuebid means invitation to game showing support with 3 cards having a top
honor or 4
cards and means 10-13 hcp;
Note8:
Considering that Reopen is not a passed hand after a reopen bid in a major his passed
partner having 5+ cards support with good distribution like 5431 or 5521 or 5440 with
9-10 hcp could bid game at level 4 because statistics are favorable to make.
3) REOPEN WHEN
OPPONENTES STOP THE BIDDING
LEMMA: To be
competitive we should not let opponents play at level 2 when they find a fit,
so we must reopen to push then to level 3 even if we need go first to level 3. Thus
after 2 passes the last player to bid must make an avaliation if he has
condition to reopen: - bidding his only 5th card suit or - double to show
the other major and a minor or - bidding 2nt to show both minors.
Lets analyze
some examples:
A)
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass
2
pass
pass ?
- if
South double he shows 4
and a minor suit (4-4+/4-4+);
- if South bid 2nt he denies 4
cards and
shows both minors (4-4 ou 5-4) North must bid his best minors suit;
-
If South reopen bidding a suit this means 5+ cards, but with a good 4 cards in
Spades in a 4333 no Vul a brave player sometines reopen 2
with only 4 cards in a hand type:
AKJ9
1094
QJ10 J108.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B)
EAST SOUTH SOUTH NORTH
1 pass 2
pass
pass ?
if South double means 4
cards and a minor (4+/4+), so
North bid: 1- with 4+
cards => 3 and
partner pass; 2- with both minors 3244
=> 2nt for partner choose; 3- with only Clubs 3334
=> 3 partner
with 2 cards
bids 3;
4- with 3352
=> 3 partner
with 2 bids 3
; 5- with only Diamonds 3343
=> 3 partner
with 2 bids 3;
----------------------------------------------------------------------------- C)
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass 2
pass (2
showing 6-9 hcp)
passo ?
- double shows any two suits
(4-4 or 5-4);
- bid a suit need 5 cards and deny other suit with 4 cards;
- 2nt shows any two suits 5-5
Note9: Careful must be take because Opener could have only 3 cards Clubs with
both majors.
------------------------------------------------------------------------- D) EAST
SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass 2
pass (2
showing 5-9 hcp)
pass ?
Analogue case (C) and also Diamonds could be 3 cards.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
E)
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1 pass 3/3
pass (minors jump support 6-9 hcp)
pass ?
Here we need careful - we should ask opponents the strength of the jump, because most
partnership use inverted minors convention and then this jump support is weak,
but when the open is made after partner had passed they could use the jump
support as being 10-11 hcp. Thus the double by South in this situation must
promise both majors and by security we should singleton in opponent's minor
(5431).
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- F)
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1 pass 3/3
pass (jump support for major weak)
pass ?
When opponents play Bergen raises this jump support is made with less than 6 hcp
and in this situation North could have passed with 13 hcp considering the reopen
danger because his partner is passed and could have only 6 or less hcp, thus
South, that is now in the reopen position, with 10-11 hcp having a 5431 or 4441
distribution WITH SINGLETON IN OPPONENT SUIT may now reopen the bidding with: 1-
Double if have the other major; 2- 3nt to show both minors 5/4+.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------- G)
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1 pass 1/1
pass
1nt pass pass
?
If the reopen is with Double this means two suits not bided; If the reopen is
in a non bided suit this means 5 cards;
If the auction was 1
pass 1 pass
1ST ? then double promise 4
cards and could have also Clubs suit.
Sometimes we have no strength to reopen, but having a long suit 6+ cards a
reopen could be made just to push opponents to level 3:
1
pass 1 pass 1nt pass pass ? with Q976542
97
K108
2
=> 2 because
partner has 13+ hcp
----------------------------------------------------------------------------- H) EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1
pass 1/1
pass
2/2
pass pass ?
When Opener rebids his minor suit this shows normaly 6+ cards and if opponents stop the
bidding this may be a misfit situation, so to reopen we must be careful and a
important
condition to reopen is be shorter in opponent minor.
Operner we1 Responder we2 1
pass 1
pass 2
pass pass
? K976
A75
Q10983
2
=> double Operner we1 Responder we2 1
pass 1
pass 2
pass pass
? K97
A1085
3
AJ864 => double
--------------------------------------------------------------------------- I) EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1/1 pass
1nt pass
2/2
pass pass
?
When Opener rebids this major after response in 1nt and the bidding is stoped in 2/2
we need be very careful to reopen. We should ask if the 1nt was forcing because
could have 10-11 hcp and be singleton in his partner's major, so to reopen we
must be also short in Opener major in a 5431 distribution and also consider that we
will force partner to play in level 3 so we need favorable vulnerability.
- if the bidding stopped in 2
the reopen with double shows 4
and a minor 4/5 cards and if the reopen stopped in 2
the double shows 4+
cards and a minor 4/5 cards; - if the reopen is in 2nt this shows both minors
4/5 cards;
Operner we1 Responder we2 1
pass 1nt
pass 2
pass pass
? K976
5
Q10983
A72
=> double Operner we1 Responder we2 1
pass 1nt
pass 2
pass pass
? 7
K10985
K94
KJ94 => double
Operner we1 Responder we2 1
pass 1nt
pass 2
pass pass
? KJ
5
Q10983
AJ972
=> 2nt Operner we1 Responder we2 1
pass 1nt
pass 2
pass pass
? 7
A94
K1094
KJ942 => 2nt
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
J)
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1NT pass pass ?
Here the reopen should use the partnership convention to reopen with 2 suits or
only one long suit, penalty double do not apply because the South lead will be
difficult in find partner long suit. The more usual conventions are:
Cappelletti (CAPP); Disturbing Opponent No Trump (DONT); Multi Landy; MeckWell
4)
REOPENING AGAINST 2 WEAK OPEN
K)
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
(2/2/2)
pass pass ?
Considerations: First
of all we should consider that Responder(West) not support the
opener denying 10 hcp and 3 cards, so we need be careful to reopen with no good
strentgh.
To reopen with 10-12 hcp we need be short in opener suit to avoid our
partnership be ruffed if opponents have misfit and Responder is singleton with
12+ hcp and passed waiting for our imprudence.
- reopen with
double means, in general, 2 suits 4+/4 and good support with 3 cards in the unbid major
-
shorter in the Opener's suit - so 11+ hcp in 5431 or 4441 distribution
with good intermediates cards is the conditions to reopen.
- with 2 weak suits
5-5 cards and around 10 hcp we reopen using michaels cuebid - read more in
Michaels Cuebid;
- with 2 strong suits 6-5 cards with 4 or less losers we reopen
with Leaping Michaels at level 4;
Note10: of couse when we show a 5/5
distribution and partner bid our dubleton we bid other suit up the line then
partner will know what are our two suits.
Nota11: When we
make a informative double after a weak two open and then after partner bid a
suit at level, if we
cuebid this shows strong hand (like 21+ hcp) trying to find a game contract.
Nota12: the Lebensohl convention applies when
our partner in second position
doubles the weak 2 open, but not for a passed Advancer when Reopener bid double:
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
(2/2/2)
double pass ? <= Leb but not for reopen
situation
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
(2/2/2)
pass pass ? <= there is no Leb
here
North bids are: double => 12+ hcp and shorter in
Opener's suit; bid a suit => 10+ hcp good suit 2 top honors 6
cards; 2nt => 15-17 hcp with 1,5 stopper and all system is on;
3nt => 19+ hcp - assume partner have 6+ hcp; normal cuebid =>
michaels weak distributional hand 5/6; jump to a minor 4/4 =>
leaping michaels 4 or less losers;
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Addendum
by Roberto Martiniano Figueira de Mello - World Bridge Champion in
1989
5) EMBUSH
PASS
Considering that
is not possible double punitive the opponent opening when we have strong hand with
strong cards in opponent suit, the better attitude is to pass and wait the auction
goes up to a desired level for then double penalty showing a indication of lead for
partner if is the case.
When to use the Embush Pass? If opponent
opens with 1
and we have all this hands below we should consider in use the Embush Pass:
a)
KJ985
A4
KQ3
K85
=> we should pass
b) QJ9743
KJ3 AK
85
=> we should pass
c) AQ103 AK85
QJ43
7
=> we should pass
and if the auction goes:
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
Pass 1nt Pass
2
?
In this sequence double by South is penalty and partner must know that is not a
reoping for Hearts or minors.
We should not double with the follow hands
d) KJ854 85
K54
K84
e)
QJ9843
843 AQ7
4
in hand (d) we are so weak that declarer could make the contract playing careful
against the double and in hand (e) opponent can find another good contract in
level 3 where we will have no possible double.
We can't double
penalty when the auction is stil open like in a 2/1 GF even if we have strong
hands like (a) or (b). We must wait until the bidding is closed to make
avaliation if a double is feasible.
EAST
SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 Pass 2 Pass
2
?
In this sequence our partner have a very weak hand thus double is out of qustion
also a reopen showing the reds suits is out of question, so pass is the only possible bid.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6) WHEN
REOPEN WITH DOUBLE IS NOT PENALTY DOUBLE
When Opener bid a second suit after response 1nt:
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass 1nt pass
2
?
here double is possible with hands type:
AQ104
AQ84
QJ92
4
this is a clear double
asking partner bid an unbid suit - here double is informative but partner with
long clubs suit can pass,
When Opener rebid his suit
after Responder bid a suit EAST
SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 Pass
1
Pass 2
?
Double is informative for the others suit:
A5
Q984
K3
KJ983 => Double
Note13: When Opener rebid his suit after
Responder bid 1nt our double is penalty, not a reopen bid
7)
WHEN DO NOT REOPEN
a) having a weak hand
We can't reopen withou good distribution and honors in the
unbid suits even they stop at level 1! Opener partner
Responder we 1suit pass
pass ?
1074
Q754
Q43
K85 pass
b) having the opponests suit A fundamental
reason for pass in the reopen position is have the opponents
suit because if we reopen we show to our partner the
opposite card configuration and he can bid our shorter suit.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass
pass
?
In all hands below we must pass
KJ1054
85
A43
954 passo
AJ103
A74
J53
743 passo
QJ643
AK
A843
63 passo
We know our partner is weak because he is shorter in Spades
and not overcall. If we reopen even having stregth to do, we
will play a bad contract or correct opponents to a good
contract.
8) REOPENING AFTER OPPONENTS FIND A FIT
The reopen after opponents find a fit is relatively more safety because if they stop
the auction in a partial score means that the 40 hcp are divided 20-20 or 21-19
or even 22-18
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
pass
1 Pass
2
pass pass ?
suggestion for reopen: West
K743
3©
52
KQ4
843 => 2
suggestion for reopen: Weast
QJ6
84
J653
AQ75 => Double
Note14: Depend on
the position of the cards NS or EW can make a contract at level 2 but in level 3
both may down 1, so the reopen have the intension to put
opponents at level 3 and then we should not go to level 3
but try to defeat the contract.
1º case: opponets have fit in minors
Like the follow bidding:
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
Pass
2
Pass
Pass ?
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 Pass
2 Pass
Pass
?
SUIT: the reopen in
a suit shows 5 weak cards and up to 10 hcp for a passed
hand:
J7432
AK2
8
J942 => 2ª
Q72
Q10932
8
K942 => 2 DOUBLE:
shows be shorter in opponent suit with up to 10 hcp or have
2 suits (majors or 1major and 1 minor), so Advancer must
think in what type of hand partner have before bid and if
Avancer bid 2©
and Reopener bid
2 this means
Reopener has Spades and the other minor.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass
2 pass
pass ?
A843
K743
Q532
4 => double
98543
KQ5
K854
3 => double
K85
85
Q10543
A74 => 2
A843
R4
AJ95
643 => double
A854
R3
J8543
K4 => double
2º case: opponets have fit is Hearts EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass 2
pass
pass ?
Double - shows 4 cards Spades or at least 3 cards with 2 honros.
AQ86
43
J854
K108 => double
2NT - shows both mimors 5/4.
74
63 ¨
AJ843
AJ53 => 2nt
3º case: opponents have fit in Spades
EAST SOUTH WEST
NORTH
1
pass 2 pass
pass ?
Double means 4+ cards in Hearts and a minor 2nt means both minors.
7
K743
AQ543
Q98 => double
54
85
AJ543
AQ85 => 2nt
9) REOPEN BY A PASSED HAND BIDDING A SUIT
When opponents
stop the bidding at level 2 and your partner reopen with a
suit you must understand that partner already are taking you
having good points, so careful ...
dont think in game. EAST
SOUTH WEST NORTH
1
pass 1
pass
2
pass pass
3
pass ?
Thus
you should pass with any of this hands below:
74
KJ53
AQ64
743 => pass
A64
K54
A854
Q53 => pass
3
QJ85
Q54
QJ743 => pass
10) REOPEN BY A PASSED HAND WITH DOUBLE
When
partner reopen with double, after had pass, you should try to
bid first in the same level or if you had 2 suits in the up
level bid first the suit
less hierarquical.
Note15 - Careful to not jump if you have 5 cards and careful
to not pass in this type of double.
EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH
1 pass 2 pass
pass double
Pass
?
KQ4
54
KJ74
8743 => 2
partner's hand could be =>
A874
A10742
4 Q74
AJ854
3
854
K763 => 2
partner's hand could be =>
K87
KJ104 42
Q108
11) REDOUBLE ASKING FOR HELP
We can use redouble
as a hope to find a better contract when opponents apply a
punish double after a take out double be transform in punish
double or after our overcall be punish with double.
The help redouble asks to partner bid another suit
even with 3 cards. If the redouble is done by advancer
(Overcaller's partner) it shows some lateral honors in the
other suits and void in Overcaller's suit. If the the
redouble is done by Overcaller or Opener it ask to partner
bid other suit.
Overcaller Advancer
Opener Overcaller Responder Advancer
K64 AQ873
1 2
pass
pass
32
985
double pass
pass
redouble*
65
D8732 pass
2
KQ10853
-
* bid up the line your first 3 cards suit
Overcaller Advancer
Opener Overcaller Responder Advancer
K86
J10953
1 2
pass pass
QJ10643
- Double
pass pass redouble
*
986
A43
pass 2
pass pass
4
QJ754 pass
* bid any black suit even with 3 cards
Overcaller Advancer
Opener Overcaller Responder Advancer
8
K7643
1
2
pass
pass
K873
Q652
double redouble* pass
2
Q87
J43 pass
pass
2nt pass
KJ953
2
3nt pass
pass
pass
* I can play in the reds
Note16:
Even overcaller have a good suit the redoubled
contract can't be played:
Overcaller Advancer
Opener Overcaller Responder Advancer
K8
AJ964
1
2
pass
pass
1072
QJ954
Double pass
pass
redouble *
54
V87 pass 2
pass
pass
AQ10863
-
pass
* bid any major even with 3 cards
/ / / that's all
folks / / /
|