BRIDGE MASTERCLASS

WHAT should you bid next on the two sequences above? on (a), you’ve bid all you’ve got. If you rebid 3 ♥ , you risk being given preference to 3 ♠ on a doubleton. If partner wants to play this hand in clubs, let him do it — the sooner you get out from this potentially dangerous auction and pass, the better.

In (b), 3 ♦ is a ‘fourth suit forcing’ bid. Partner is not showing a diamond suit, but is asking you to describe your hand further, with a particular interest in hearing whether you have a diamond stopper for play in no Trumps.

You have been given the fortunate opportunity to show your weakish two-suiter. You rebid 3 ♥ , from which partner will know you are at least 5-5 in the majors. If he then gives you preference to 3 ♠ , you must decide whether to pass or bid 4 ♥ , dependent on whether you play FSF as game forcing.