What is the meaning of the auction so far? by Bobby Wolff

A: 2♦: Two schools of thought exist here. Those playing "equal level conversion" say bidding two diamonds over two clubs does not show extras. The other group says it promises a king more than an opening bid, so you must pass two clubs here. I don't have a dog in this particular race, but I would bid two diamonds now, believing that a suit this good needs to be bid --even at the cost of a slight overbid.

Your result so far:

A: Redouble: Regardless of whether East intends his call to show a strong hand with diamonds, or the unbid suits, you are in a position to tell him he may have made a mistake. Redouble, announcing that your side has the balance of high cards, and hope partner can raise you or take further appropriate action when the opponents bid on.

Your result so far:

A: 4♦: You should ask your opponent about the double, but the normal meaning for it is that West has a solid major. Your partner should redouble with a stopper in both majors, so there is something to be said for being cautious and retreating to four diamonds. If you have fallen victim to a con, you will at least know never to trust that opponent again.


Your result so far:

A: 4♦: Despite your limited high cards, your hand is worth a jump to four diamonds. This is an unusual application of the rule that, in forcing auctions, an unnecessary jump sets partner's suit as trump and promises shortness in the bid suit. This is known as a "splinter bid," and might be one of the most useful slam tools to be employed by the expert community.

Your result so far:

A: 3♦: At this point in the auction, you can be fairly sure partner will have only four spades if he has a dead minimum or is unsuitable for competing further. Since he is clearly not long in hearts, the opponents' club fit is likely an eight-card one (or East might have gone back to hearts). Your honors look more suitable for offense than defense, so I would risk a call of three diamonds now.


Your result so far: