BRIDGE MASTERCLASS

What action would you take on this hand after East opened with a pre-emptive 3♥?

Most players find this situation awkward to handle — and it is designed to be so. the pre-empt, especially in a major is the most obstructive and damaging bid in bridge.

You would normally have opened 1♦ on this minimum hand, but you must not now be tempted to enter the auction, just because you are void in hearts.

Firstly, you have no sensible bid available; secondly, West will be waiting to land a hefty penalty, if he has values; and thirdly, your action could jeopardise partner’s intentions.

If the deal belongs to the opponents, it’s best to let them get on with it.

You pass, and if West does also, there’s a good chance that North will have values. He would surely bid 3♠ on ♠AQJxxx, ♥xxx, ♦Kx, ♣xx. And you will then be in a position to reach a very good slam in spades.