Logical thinking

I’VE heard it said that in our youth we learn; in our old age we understand. Early in their bridge development, players depend on rules. It’s a sign of maturation when they begin to rely on logical thinking.

In today’s deal, the defence starts with four heart tricks, and South wins a spade shift with dummy’s queen. A beginner might take the A-K of diamonds next, applying the rule of “eight ever, nine never.” East would show out, and South would go down.

A better player would see nine tricks if clubs broke 3-3; he would cash the top clubs. When West threw a spade, South would try the diamonds but might put his faith in “nine never” again.

SPADE SUIT

An expert declarer would test the clubs, but after West’s discard, declarer would use logic. West had four hearts and two clubs. With five cards in spades, he would have led a spade against 3NT.

So South would place West with at most four spades, so three diamonds. South would take the ace and finesse with dummy’s jack.

DAILY QUESTION You hold: J9764 AK7 3 J 10 8 4. The dealer, at your left, opens one heart. Your partner doubles, and the next player bids two hearts. What do you say?

ANSWER It’s unclear where the other players are finding their bids, but you must bid the value of your cards. Jump to three spades, inviting game. If you are vulnerable, to risk four spades would be reasonable. You would bid two spades to compete if your king of hearts were a low heart. South dealer Both sides vulnerable