What should I bid? - Best enquiry for February 2009

The best submission for February came from Lynn Kalmin.

 Hand:   Nil Vulnerable with South the dealer, you hold as South:

K53  AQ105  A72  972

Bidding:	West	North	East	South
				1
	Pass	1	3	Pass
	Pass	Double	Pass	?

Comments:    What should South bid? The partnership is playing basic standard - all bids are natural. After South chose the 'wrong' action for the hand an interesting debate followed and very strong opinions were held.

Sartaj's Reply:

Hi Lynn,

It's a tricky hand and I can think of three options - pass, 3 and 3  with 3NT a vague fourth choice.

I am dismissing 3NT as this could be a silly contract. I would rather pass and take the penalties for we should get at least +300 if we are making 3NT.

I am also giving up on pass as we might have a slam and they rate to have a 9 card or maybe even a 10 card fit.

That leaves us with 3 and 3. I sort of like 3, because it gives partner a chance to bid 3 (over which I can bid 4, showing diamond control and a spade fit).

I am interested in the full hand. I'm sure hands like this lead to a fiery exchange of opinions.

Sartaj

Lynn's reply:

Thanks for your quick reply and valuable comments. North's hand was;

 AJ74
 KJ2
 1064
 AQJ

Obviously, in hindsight the best bid was pass. A bid that I didn't consider! 4 is a make because the suit breaks. 4 impossible because the suit breaks 5/1. 3NT is a make if you decide to take the spade finesse rather than play on clubs for your 9th trick.

The bid that I chose at the table was 3 but I definitely see the merit of bidding 3. Not sure if this will ever help us to get to 4 rather than 4.

Anyway, thanks for your 'impartial' outside opinion. Obviously because 'pass' works, partner thought it was the standout bid.

Regards
Lynn

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