Big_Tomato

We play 1C-2C as showing a precision-like 2C opener (usually 11-15 hcps) with either 6+ clubs or 5+ clubs and 4+ major: opener responds with a 2D relay on many hands especially when balanced. However, 1D-2D is a bog standard inverted minor denying a 4 card major (but 1D-2H shows 5 diamonds and 4 hearts and 11+ hcps) Big_Tomato

1. At pairs I pass and at teams I bid 5D and if he was from Israel.....that wouldn't change my mind, but what I had seen of their dummy play may influence my decision - sometimes even +150 feels like a good score.... 2. If only I could have watched his hand flicking over the bidding box, then I would know if he was close to passing or bidding 5D....all I now know if that he thought he had a tough decision - and its never easy going past 3N when you know partner has a stop and you are yet to find your fit... 3. Not a chance

Can someone give me some information about 3 level short suit responses to 1NT opening bids. Particularly, what, if any, are the differences between the 3M bids and the 3m bids. Secondly, what hand shapes are permitted, I presume 4441 and 5440 but if 5431 shapes are allowed how are these managed/restricted. And I would be delighted if somebody could summarise the advantages and disadvantages of this method. Thanks in advance. Big T's

The drawback with 55minors is the frequency, no matter what the HCP range - it just don't come up often enough to justify its place on a bidding card. However, if you are not risk adverse - and your rules allow it - try 2NT as 5/5 shape, weak and denying spades (C/D, C/H or D/H). You treble the frequency and significantly increase the problems for the defence. Partner scrambles in the minors and bids 3H as invitational and 3S as a GF artificial enquiry. Big T