Responding to a negative double

[MickyB]

You are playing with an expert pick-up partner, and the auction commences 1♦ (2♣) X (pass); What would you assume the approximate ranges and minimum suit lengths to be for opener's rebids? Would you play it any differently with a regular partner?

 

Thanks

[pclayton]

Unlike a double of a major, I play this sequence as two places to play. It should ideally show a semi-balanced 8 count or better. 2 places to play include:

 

1. Both 4 card majors

2. One 4 card major and diamond support

3. One 4 card major and a club stop

 

Note that a single suited major passes first. This is one of the reasons why I drop the requirement a little to a real good 8 perhaps for a 2 of a major.

 

I wouldn't treat jump rebids as any stronger than 1 minor - 1 major - 3 major. 2 of a major should be 4 pieces and a minimum, however, you might be stuck bidding a 3 card major on ♠xx ♥AQx ♦Axxx ♣Qxxx.

[MickyB]

however, you might be stuck bidding a 3 card major on ♠xx ♥AQx ♦Axxx ♣Qxxx.

What about this hand makes it a 2♥ bid rather than a 2NT bid?

[Guest Jlall]

minimum lengths: 2D 5, 2H 3, 2S 3.

 

minimum strengths: 2x minimum (including 2N) 3x extras, can be less than 1m 1M 3M. 4M more based on shape, cue then 4M more based on strength.

[mila85]

Very depends on system you play.

Playing weak nt or or opening balanced hands via 1♣, my 2M bid always shows 4 because I can always rebid 2♦ having 5.

Mimimum hand for 3M is when I want to play 3nt against minimum partner with stopper in clubs and without fit.

[pclayton]

however, you might be stuck bidding a 3 card major on  ♠xx ♥AQx ♦Axxx ♣Qxxx.

What about this hand makes it a 2♥ bid rather than a 2NT bid?

I'd want to take my chances in the 4-3 instead of 2N with the flaky club stop and no source of tricks. The 2344 has a ruffing value too.

 

Of course, I may be playing a mini-moysian too LOL.

 

Weak NT's anyone? :)