On different wavelengths

[rmnka447]

Look at the hands, folks! 4 S on a total on 17 HCP is a little much. In all auctions, at some point, someone has to limit the value of their hand.

 

I don't have a problem with South opening 1 H on the hand. It does have 2 1/2 QTs, both majors, and intermediates in both suits. It's a VERY light opening. It's also OK to pass it if that's your style.

 

After the 2 C bid, the negative double is OK too because of the long Diamond suit. Normally, with a balanced hand, you'd need 10+ HCP to double at the 2 level. But here, if the opponents compete further to 3 Clubs, you'll bid Diamonds showing long diamonds and not enough values to bid 2 D directly.

 

After the 3 C bid, opener has a clear pass. Yes, he does know there is a 4-4 spade fit. However, a direct 3 S bid would shows at least 13-14 HCP and 4 Spades. The pass at this point limits his hand to a minimum opener. His partner will still have another chance to speak and allow his side to compete. If his partner, in pass out seat reopens with a Double, he will know his partner has the 10+ point hand and now a competitive bid of 3 S becomes OK. Doubler will then be in position to make the right decision should the opponents bid on.

 

As it happens, the negative doubler will bid 3 D when 3 C is passed back to him. Opener now knows that the doubler doesn't have a hand strong enough (11-12+ HCP and 5+ Ds) to make a direct free bid.

 

When the opponents compete to 4 C,the negative doubler has a tough decision to make. At IMPs, the decision is easy -- just pass and take your positive. At Matchpoints, the decision is more difficult. But looking at a stiff in partner's suit and the S A, prospects are good that 4 C can be defeated. Therefore, he should Double. They'll be times that 4C doubled will make, but that the nature of Matchpoints. But the issue is that 4 C undoubled down 2 is less than any partscore that you could make.

 

The defense should go singleton Heart to opener's A or K. Cash the second H honor on which doubler makes a discouraging signal in Ds. A third heart is led showing a suit preference for Spades. Doubler ruffs, cashes the S A, and continues Spades. The result 4 C doubled down 2 for a +300 and a good score.