Forum Question 15 – Meaning for this double

Forum Question 15 - Meaning for this double

This question was asked to: Julian Pottage

Question

Hi Julian, I held the East cards and as you can see, we were on different wavelengths regarding the West double on this hand. I interpreted the double as showing extra values (takeout), but partner intended it as penalties. Am I missing something? Should the West double be penalties?

Answer

North-South sound as though they have a fit and west has not previously turned down the chance to make a takeout double. the double should show extra values and either some heart support or sufficiently good spades to correct 3H to 3S. West has a very rare hand on which one would wish to make a penalty double but West should not expect East to work this out.

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