A Million Problems in One

A million problems built into one.

On this hand West has a choice of opening 1S, 3S, 4S, maybe even pass? I think 1S is probably the best bid with this hand. You are far too strong to open 3S, certainly not weak enough to pass. 4S has some merit to it with the preemptive value.

After this, East has the next problem. But this is more a problem of system — with 10 HCP and 3 spades, in many 2/1 systems this is an easy 1NT response (with a plan to rebid 3S).

Now South with a magnificent 12 count and a void in spades would love to get in there. And this is a classic example of a takeout double. Notice, this is still a takeout double of spades after the 1NT response (this is standard — feel free to apply it in your own bridge games!)

West with 7 spades is not quick to let this one die out, and pushes further with 2S. East is still intent on making an invite. And West, although they only have 10 HCP, knowing they also have a likely 10 card fit and a void in clubs — continues on to game.

Now onto the play, it’s likely we receive a club lead and West has to ruff in hand. We know we have 10 spades (and the best way to play a 10 card fit missing the K is to finesse the first time — try this out in the Suit Combinations section of the website). We know we’ll get 3 heart tricks, a diamond, and 6-7 spades. Can we create any more? With the 3-0 split, we cannot ruff a diamond — as we’ll end up losing a spade instead of a second diamond. We may be able to ruff the club good, however we are one entry short.

Looks like we’re stuck with 4S+1.