BRIDGE

WHAT would you respond on this hand, after partner opens 1♥? ACOL gives you three options – none of which is completely descriptive of your hand; so your choice again depends on partnership style.

(a) 1NT, showing a balanced 6-9 points; not ideal, because you have no spade stopper.

(b) 2♥, better than (a) because it is an equally limited response. Partner probably has at least five hearts but, even a 4-3 fit will be fine, as you can protect against an attack in spades.

(c) 2♣. By some margin, my preferred choice. You will then pass when partner rebids 2♥, or 2NT – it’s your most ‘honest’ response and, if you end up defending with partner on lead, he’ll know to lead a club. We frequently get hands on which there’s more than one option, and it’s well worthwhile to consider the pros and cons of each, before making a choice.

I suggested a pass when you bid 2♣ and partner then bids 2NT but, here again, you have a judgment to make, because your hand is borderline for a raise to game, and your diamond holding may tip the balance in favour.

If you decide to bid again, your choice must be 3♥ – not 3NT. Partner may well have a 5-card suit, and you give him the option of the final contract.