New Canadian Bridge

TUESDAY, JULY 20, 2021

Declarer drew trump in three rounds to continue with the king, ace and a diamond ruff establishing the suit. The king of clubs drove out the ace and the defense was entitled to the ace of hearts but an overtrick was home.

North's decision to employ Stayman was not without risk. He would be in a tight spot when partner rebids two hearts. A three diamond continuation would be game-forcing so he would likely settle for an offshape 2NT game invitation. Occasionally, South might convert to spades when he was 4-4 in the majors where the major suit game would again be reached.

What would North's thoughts be when opener rebids two diamonds denying a four-card major? We can surmise that he would pass to guarantee a plus score.

The nine-trick game would not be a happy landing when West begins with a fourth best heart. The defense would be entitled to four heart winners and the ace of clubs.

At some tables, North declined any action where 1NT was passed out. South brought home eight tricks versus a heart lead but ten when West selected a fourth best club as an opening shot.