Bridge

Opening Lead: ƅK

South ruffed the club continuation, led a spade to the king and continued with the jack of diamonds for a hook. When West could not produce the king, the slam was home, N-S +1430.

South's resolve to venture slam was not without risk. The auction revealed that partner held at least a limit raise of spades and the subsequent heart cue bid disclosed the ace. South had hoped, of course, that North would also display the king of diamonds, guaranteeing success. North was unlikely to hold shortness since he did not offer a splinter bid. South reasoned that he was certain to lose a club trick but would still be in with a chance if North did not hold the diamond king. It was his lucky day when North held a doubleton diamond and the king was onside.

West could corral nine tricks at clubs when the defense begins with three rounds of hearts. In that sense, a club sacrifice would yield a healthy profit. A doubled four trick set would lose only 800 points. However, how many N-S pairs would drive to slam on this deal?