NEIL HAYWARD BRIDGE

The Early Play: West leads the ♣A, the ♣K and the ♣3. East, who showed a doubleton, ruffs. East returns the ♦Q. How do you play?

Recommended Line: Many players would win and finesse in hearts, because finesses are ingrained in the instincts of so many. However, the worst time to take a finesse is when you know (or should know) it is going to fail. In the case of this hand, West has shown up with seven points in clubs, and seems to hold three more points in the form of the ♦K. This is based on the fact that East’s return of the ♦Q suggests the ♦J but not the ♦K. In addition, players show suit preference when playing a card for their partner to ruff. So, you imagine West holds ten points in the minor suits, which tells you that West will not hold the ♥K, given West’s pass as dealer. So, East holds the ♥K, and trying to drop it is your best chance. The only reason to finesse would be if you are hoping to do a business deal with East.