Mark:
First let's go back to the first round of bidding after
North bid a normal, routine 1 diamond. E has a hard decision. Nothing quite
fits as a description of this hand. A suit overcall generally requires a 5 card
suit. A double of an opening in 1 of a minor doesn't guarantee 4 card support
for both majors, but implies at least tolerance for both, not a
singleton. What would double, as on the actual hand, followed by a bid of
spades. The spade bid wouldn't be a cue bid in this auction, it would promise a
5 card or longer spade suit with a hand too strong for a simple overcall.
The best course of action by E after 1 diamond by N, is to pass! At least 90% of strong players would choose that.
If E passes, most South players would drive to game looking at an opening hand (yes, a minimum opener) opposite an opening hand (Also a minimum) N-S are likely to end in 3NT with virtually no chance to make it. If they do make it, it would be due to a defensive error or two, coupled with good guessing after E gives away valuable information with a painfully slow pass.
When E does make the ill-
advised double, South should pounce and make them pay dearly. With 10 or more
points, South should redouble. Where can E-W find shelter? W will surely bid
hearts. Every possible E-W contract should be doubled and set multiple tricks.
Given that N-S can't make game, even +300 will be a terrific score. .
Given the vulnerability, I can understand an aggressive South player might
worry that with a likely vulnerable game, setting the opponents non- vul may
not be enough.
In summary, when you have a really nice hand and an
opponent bids one of your excellent suits, don't be afraid to pass.
When your partner opens the bidding, you have a nice hand and your right
hand opponent enters the auction, look for a possible lucrative penalty. Don't
hesitate to double and keep doubling if they run.
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