Strong openers

Big hands

2

An unconditional game force — bidding continues to at least game level.

  • 2A relay bid promising 5+ points.
  • 2A weak bid showing ≤ 4 points.
  • 2NTShows 1.5+ quick tricks (QT) and a 5+ card suit.
  • anyAny other suit bid shows a good 5+ card suit and 1.5+ QT.

2

2 is either 8 playing tricks in an unspecified suit or a balanced 23-24 points.

A strong opener, forcing for one round but not to game. Responder bids 2 as a relay with any hand; other bids show a good 5+ card suit. Opener then describes their hand, and responder can pass a minimum rebid below game.

4NT

Requests responder to show any ace in their hand by bidding that suit. With no aces, bid 5.

Key

  • M= Majors
  • m= Minors
  • NT= No Trump
  • s= suit
  • a= another suit
  • l= lower suit
  • x= Double
  • xx= Redouble