BRIDGE MASTERCLASS

YOu are playing rubber bridge and both sides are at game and 60. What would you open on this hand? WiTH a balanced hand and 21HCPs, most people will automatically open 2nT at duplicate, regardless of the obvious weakness in hearts. The good rubber bridge player however has a different psyche, especially when playing for high stakes. He is more circumspect and cautious about getting caught for large penalties. That frail heart suit will deter some from getting too high in no Trumps, and they would open 1 ♦ risking a missed game, if partner could not respond.

Being already 60 towards game and rubber, you have the option of bidding only 1nT — there is no ‘rule’ which says you have to bid in accordance with your point count, when you have no need to. you decide whether you take your chance to win the rubber, or risk missing a slam. Because of the weakness in hearts on this hand, i would open 2 ♦ ; at the score, partner will pass this, unless he has slam interest — and we collect 100 for honours.