Texas or delayed Texas?

[han]

Partner opens 1NT (15-17) and you hold a 9-count with 4 spades and 6 hearts. Do you usually use a Texas transfer into the hearts or do you usually bid Stayman first to see if you have a 4-4 spade fit?

[Guest Jlall]

usually stayman

[neilkaz]

For me it depends on how good the two suits are, especially the 4 card suit as if they are weak, I not want the 4-4 fit if it exists.

 

Just my opinion here .. neilkaz ..

[pclayton]

Almost always Stayman, but if I had ♠Jxxx ♥AKJxxx I'd Texas.

[bhall]

I choose between Stayman and Texas based on how I think the hand would play in the 4-4 fit. Entry problems after an early tap or a very bad 4-card suit would normally argue for playing in the 6-card suit.

[helene_t]

There was a discussion half a year ago about methods for showing opener's double fit after a transfer followed by a new suit. This was in the context of 5M4m but it might be useful here as well.

 

The above armchair philosophy aside, I voted Stayman unless the 6-card suit is very good. Not sure if the quality of the 6-card should be the main criterion, though. bhall's considerations make a lot of sense.

[skjaeran]

Agree with Phil here.

I'd like a poll alternative for Stayman unless the 4c suit is terrible. :P

[Free]

Depends on suit quality

[Fluffy]

stayman unless 4c suit is too bad.