BRIDGE MASTERCLASS

ThIS is yesterday’s hand with South added, together with the recommended correct auction. At the table, North made the terrible rebid of 4 , instead of FSF, which was unfortunately allowed to make — only due to an opponent’s revoke. 3NT makes comfortably with an overtrick.

There are two interesting points about these hands. First, unless you have agreed to play five-card majors, it is poor style to expect partner to guarantee five hearts — even though it is probable. In any event, with 17hCPs, the hand is too strong for a mere delayed game raise.

Second, some teachers of modern bidding methods advocate that you should never open on 12-point hands and 4-4-4-1 distribution. This may be sound advice to beginners, but as soon as a little experience has been gained, the maxim should be to open, provided you have a sensible rebid. Acol bidders like to get into the auction early!