Delayed major-suit raises at the three-level, forcing or non-forcing?
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 look at:
Delayed major-suit raises at the three-level, forcing or non-forcing?
Problem 1
| W | N | E | S |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1♥ | Pass | 1♠ | |
| Pass | 2♥ | Pass | 3♥ |
| Pass | 4♥ |
The facts
Game was reached by chance, the slam never really considered.
Arguments
North: “Do you realize I could have passed 3♥? Because in my opinion your bid is non-forcing. That being said, you may be right, otherwise I don’t see how to naturally show a forcing raise.”
South: “You have to learn the basic rules. Delayed raises shown at the three-level are forcing and therefore stronger than a jump to game. I have no other way to investigate slam. When your 4♥ bid tells me that you have a minimum opening, not even good enough for a 3NT “YES, BUT”, I can only pass.”
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