BRIDGE MASTERCLASS

You open 1 ♣ and rebid 1 ♠ over partner’s 1 ♥ response. What do you bid when partner next bids (a) 2 ♣ , (b) 2 ♥ , (c) 1NT, (d) 2 ♠ , (e) 2 ♦ ?

After (a) or (b), you certainly pass; 2 ♣ gives simple preference to your first suit and 2 ♥ should promise a six-carder.

After (c), it is also best to pass as partner is likely to be 5-4 in the red suits with at least one diamond stopper; your solid club suit will provide valuable tricks in Nts. After (d), you could raise to 3 ♠ , which is strictly pre- emptive and non-forcing; partner has only made a simple raise of your second suit, so game is unlikely.

After (e), you rebid 2 ♠ ;2 ♦ is fourth Suit forcing, asking you to describe your hand further. He may have been hoping to hear you rebid in No trumps to show a diamond stopper, but you are able to reveal the equally good news that you have five spades. He now knows that you can hold no more than three red cards — though you could still have a diamond stopper.