Starting over

It would be nice if when we’re playing the dummy, we could hit Control-Alt-Delete and start over. Alas, even if the rules would allow such a thing, your opponents wouldn’t.

In today’s deal, West led the six of hearts against 3NT, and declarer carelessly played low from dummy. East took the queen and returned the ten. Even if the clubs broke 3-2, South had only eight winners. He had to force out the ace of spades, and then West won and cashed three hearts. Down one.

FIRST TRICK

South booted 3NT, and after the first trick, it was too late to reboot. His contract is in danger only if West has long hearts plus an entry. But if West has five hearts, East will have two honors: If West’s heart holding were K-J-10-6-3 or Q-J-10-6-3, he would have led an honor.

South should put up dummy’s ace on the first heart to block the suit. When he forces out the ace of spades next, the defenders have four heart tricks to cash but can’t get them untangled. South will have at least nine winners.

DAILY QUESTION

You hold: ♠ K J 7 4 ♥ A4 ♦ K 7 6 ♣ A 6 5 2. The dealer, at your right, opens two hearts (weak). You double, and your partner bids two spades. What do you say?

ANSWER: Your double promised opening values — really, more than that since your partner might have been obliged to respond at the three level — plus support for the unbid suits, especially the other major. You have little more than you promised, and partner may have nothing. Pass. South dealer Both sides vulnerable