Strong reverses
North-South have reached a very poor contract. As so often, each of the two players considers that his partner is responsible for the accident. And you, what do you think?
This month we will be looking at: Strong reverses.
Problem 1
| W | N | E | S |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1♣ | Pass | 1♥ | |
| Pass | 2♦ | Pass | 2♥ |
The facts
The young couple is progressing rapidly, and this accident, stopping at 2 Hearts with 29HCP, will allow them to complete what they have learnt so far.
Arguments
North: “I have the bare minimum for my reverse, and despite my doubleton King of Spades, I don’t know how to get to nine tricks opposite a weak hand shown by 2♥. And, as we’ve learned, 2 No-Trump is often worse than 2 Hearts. Why did you not simply use fourth suit forcing?”
South: “Yes, you’re right, but you’ve forgotten that we’ve also learned that bidding a reverse is autoforcing: you’re not allowed to pass 2♥. That being said, I indeed caused you a problem. If I say 2♠ as you suggest, I cover all cases.”
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