Question:
Should South’s bid of 1S in response to North’s
opening bid be considered forcing?
Mark:
Yes, it is forcing since S is not a passed hand. South
could potentially have 25 points and have a hand that makes the combined
partnership holding sufficient to make 7 NT.
Each time the bidding progresses, you have more
information. You then have to ask yourself what is the range of partner's
points, based on the bidding so far. You then add your points to both ends and
the middle of partner's range. If it's over 25, there is a good likelihood that
game can be made in NT or a major suit where there are a combined 8
cards or more.If it's at least 33, slam is likely. If it's 20 to 24
potential total for both hands of the partnership, a part score is advisable.
In this case, North should bid 1NT or 2 clubs to show
a minimum opening bid, a pretty good description, leaving it up to South to
decide what the combined holding indicates. South, with an opening bid strength
hand facing an opening bid, should drive to game, but should be mindful of the
danger of a wide- open diamond suit. The simplest bid for south is 3 spades.
Experts might try 2 hearts when it is forcing, both partners are aware it
doesn't promise a 4 card suit and that it is forcing and expressing doubt about
diamonds. It happens that 4 spades, 4 hearts and 5 clubs are all easily
makeable, while 3NT is a disaster. Some pairs will bid 3NT and 1 spade making 4
will be better than a minus score so it will not be a total flop, though I
expect it to fetch a below average score.
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