Bidding

Question

South opened 2C, followed by pass, 2H, pass, 3NT. A low spade was led and Declarer made 3N+1 for a top score. Some pairs did not even make game. Was this a sensible sequence, taking a punt on North having a Spade stopper and risking a minor suit lead?

Bernard's Answer

With 2 long minors and 19 points I think the best plan is to open 1C and then rebid 2D – a reverse which is forcing – this would allow for an auction to reach 3NT more confidently: 1C – 1S – 2D – 2NT – 3D – 3NT North is forced to bid over 2D and 2NT is reasonable (2H would be fourth suit forcing and show a strong er hand). Over 2NT the opener rebids the second minor which suggests 6-5 shape. With no real fit for either minor North probably rebids 3NT – note that 3NT is only good because of the HK – so it is tricky to judge. The problem with your auction is that you have not shown either of your long suits and clearly if you have a fit in a minor then slam is quite likely – give your partner 4 small diamonds and an ace and 6D is favourite.