1NT X P 2C

[Kaitlyn S]

1NT Double Pass 2C

 

1NT = strong

Double = penalty (this pair would double with a strong notrump)

Pass = undefined

 

Does anybody play that 2C is something other than a weak hand with long clubs?

[Stephen Tu]

I've seen players play this as "system on", i.e. stayman, but I think those people are seriously misguided.

[Finch]

Random scramble - usually a weak balanced hand.

This is consistent with the idea that we double a strong NT on a strong balanced hand ourselves, or one with a good suit, because we are trying to compete the partscore rather than trying to take a large penalty.

[SteveMoe]

Opposite Weak NT, this is a scramble denying BoP and a 5-card suit elsewhere. Any 2 bid shows weakness (less than BoP) and 5-cards. Pass is forcing to 2♠.

 

Opposite Strong NT, we play systems on so this is stayman.

[nige1]

1NT Double Pass 2C

1NT = strong

Double = penalty (this pair would double with a strong notrump)

Pass = undefined

Does anybody play that 2C is something other than a weak hand with long clubs?

Traditionally, when partner penalty doubles 1N, you should pass with a flat weak hand (partner might have, for example ♠ J x ♥ A x ♦ A K Q J x x ♣ x x x),

Hence 2♣ is a ostensibly natural and weak with 5+♣s but it might be a cunning ploy with say ♠ x x ♥ x x x x x ♦ x x x x x ♣ x, intending to SOS redouble when doubled. You might develop this into an (alertable) convention e.g.

Take the double out into 2♣ and when doubled ...

• Pass with 5+ ♣s.
• Redouble with the red suits.
• Bid 2♦ with the pointy suits.
• Bid 2♥ with the majors.

Or something even more sophisticated :)