BRIDGE MASTERCLASS

Partner deals and opens 1nt (12-14pts). What would you respond? Most inexperienced Acol players would bid 3 ♠ (forcing) on this hand and then, if partner rebid 3Nt, bid the heart suit at whatever level they felt inclined.

In most cases, it is probable that aggressive bidders would reach slam level, knowing that partner shouldn’t open 1Nt with nothing in either major.

this approach isn’t terrible, but there is a more scientific option, which gives you a much better chance of reaching the best final contract — possibly the Grand slam.

Instead of telling partner about your hand in a direct and forceful manner, try and find out something about partner’s No trump opening.

It costs you nothing to find out if partner has got a 4-card major (not impossible) by using stayman. so here, you should bid 2 ♣ . If partner shows a major, you press on immediately with slam investigations; if, as is more likely, he makes a denial with 2 ♦ , you will still be able to find your best fit. We will see this tomorrow.