The possibilities were numerous BRIDGE

The nonduplicate tables at Bridge Base Online feature robots and various levels of player. But I find it interesting to see what people and bots do. Yes, the robots are more consistent in the bidding. I remember one deal where all 15 pairs of robots had the same short auction to the wrong slam. In this deal, though, what should South do next after the given start to the auction? West’s two-diamond overcall is a Michaels CueBid, showing at least 5-5 in the majors. Also, how do contracts of four hearts and five diamonds fare?

This start happened seven times. The choices, all made by humans, were pass (once), double (twice), five clubs (once) and five diamonds (thrice).

Pass could easily be the winner but is too cautious.

Double indicates a strong hand, expecting partner to pass unless long in one of the minors.

Five clubs is wrong because it shows at least 5-5 in the minors. With 6-4 in the minors, you should bid four no-trump.

I think it is close between double and four no-trump.

Four hearts can be defeated but is almost certain to make. South must lead a low diamond. Then North can win with his ace and shift to the club 10, giving the defenders the first three tricks. And the icing is ladled onto the cake when South plays a third club, promoting a trump trick for his side: East ruffs with dummy’s heart eight, and North overruffs with the nine.

Five diamonds fails after any lead except a low heart, the simplest route being via a spade ruff by East.