Forum Question 8 – Misfitting Hands
Misfitting Hands
This question was asked to: Julian Pottage
Question
I held the East hand at a clubs Pairs event. Firstly, do you agree with my choice of 3C (Ghestem) with longer hearts and significantly better quality hearts? It might be difficult to mention spades if I start with a 1H overcall or a 2H WJO.
After South doubles 3C (showing clubs), what should actions by West mean?
(a) Pass = no preference between the majors; 3H = longer hearts than spades
(b) Pass = no values and/or fit; 3H = willingness to play in hearts
(c) Pass = length in clubs and willing to play in 3C; 3H = not willing to play in 3C
Answer
As the hearts are both longer and stronger than the spades, i would overcall 1H. This is especially the case as you were facing a passed hand and knew you were quite likely to end up defending, when you would want partner to lead a heart rather than a spade.
After 3C is doubled, pass should show no preference, so West’s 3H is fine.
Regarding the shape, I agree you do not want to overcall with a 5332 shape. sometimes you have a 5-card suit and a 4-card suit or even two 5-card suits, in which case you do not want to have always to pass. You cannot make a takeout double of 1NT because double would be for penalties. Sometimes if you are short in one major and have four cards in the major, you could pass first time with the intention of doubling if responder transfers into your short suit.
Questions are taken from the Bernard Magee Bridge forum which is available with BMB paid memberships.