Q 1 • Neither vulnerable, as South, you hold:
♠K Q 8 7 4 ♥K 3 2 ♦K Q 5 2 ♣A
With the opponents passing, you open one spade and partner raises to two spades. What call would you make?
A • This hand is too good to make an invitation. Bid four spades.
Q 2 • North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold:
♠A 10 8 5 ♥A J ♦K J 2 ♣A K 6 2
SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST
2NT Pass 3♥* Pass
?
*Transfer to spades
What call would you make?
A • Any bid you make, other than three spades, shows a hand that loves spades. This hand loves spades! Bid four clubs.
Q 3 • East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:
♠A ♥A 10 7 6 4 2 ♦A 6 5 ♣K 8 5
NORTH EAST SOUTH WEST
1♣ Pass 1♥ Pass
1NT Pass ?
What call would you make?
A • In modern bridge, three hearts would be invitational and four hearts would be a sign-off. Slam is possible, so bid two diamonds, the “new” minor, looking for three-card heart support.
Q 4 • Both vulnerable, as South, you hold:
♠Q 2 ♥Q 6 5 ♦A 9 8 6 4 ♣K 8 6
Right-hand opponent opens one heart. What call would you make?
A • Overcalling at the two level in a five-card minor suit and a poor overall hand is losing tactics. Pass.
Q 5 • North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold:
♠4 3 ♥A K ♦K Q 8 7 5 4 ♣A J 7
As dealer, what call would you make?
A • Opening one no trump with this distribution is acceptable in modern bridge, but this hand is worth more than 17 points. Open one diamond. (01/08/18)