Toradin Posted April 9, 2012 Report Share Posted April 9, 2012 Hi all, What should a 3NT overcall of a 2 level preempt typically show? And what would be the difference between a direct 3NT overcall and a double, followed by 3NT, assuming we play Lebensohl over takeout doubles? Over the weekend, I overcalled my opponent's 2♥ with 3NT in the direct seat on a 19 count 5341 hand, with AQT in hearts. This led to a poor result as we had a 10 card spade fit and was cold for both 6♠ and 6NT, and partner did not take action with his 10 count 5224 hand. Thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ArtK78 Posted April 9, 2012 Report Share Posted April 9, 2012 A 3NT overcall of a 2-level opening should show an expectation of making 9 tricks with at least one stopper in their suit. A double followed by 3NT should show a balanced or semi-balanced powerhouse hand - about 21-22 HCP or even more - with at least one stopper in their suit. Double followed by 2NT should show about 19-20 HCP. Of course, if partner bids Lebensohl, this creates a bid of a problem, as 19-20 may be enough to make a game opposite partner's "weak" hand. Having a 5 card major on the side is very unusual for a 3NT overcall. I would certainly not expect it if I were the 3NT overcaller's partner. Having said that, if I had a 10 count opposite a 3NT overcall of a 2 level opening bid, I doubt that I would pass. But I would have to see my hand. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fuburules3 Posted April 9, 2012 Report Share Posted April 9, 2012 Obviously depends on agreements. One way to play it is that a direct 2NT is 15-18 balanced (with a stopper) and stronger balanced hands double first. A direct 3NT is then a hand with a source of tricks and a stopper and partner should not bid without slam interest. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Finch Posted April 9, 2012 Report Share Posted April 9, 2012 A good distinction to make is that double followed by 3NT invites partner to pull i.e. it shows a strong balanced hand (how strong depends on whether you had room to double then bid 2NT as well), while a direct jump to 3NT is hoping to make it but is likely to have a long minor and isn't particularly interested in partner bidding a long side suit. So with AKxAQxKJ10xAQx I double a weak 2H opening then bid 3NT but with AxAQxxAKJxxxx I overcall 3NT immediately 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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