BRIDGE MASTERCLASS

WHAT would you respond on the above West hand after partner opens 1 ? FoR the past couple of days, I’ve been explaining why it is wrong to make a forcing jump response just because you have 16-plus points. The jump should be used only when you want to suggest a slam and it ensures that the subsequent bidding will continue until game at least is reached.

If East above had opened with a red suit, you would respond 2 , but the 1 makes a big difference to the value of your hand, especially if it is known to show a five-card suit.

Though West has only 10hCPs, you expect to play in game and want to alert partner to the possibility of a slam if he has the right cards.

how can you do this straightaway if you don’t make a jump response of 3 ; partner will rebid 3 and you must now judge whether to show your great length in clubs, with 4 , or indicate your spade support with 3 .

Either slam will depend only on a reasonable trump break, but would you be able to reach it without that initial jump?