COPING WITH
INTERFERENCE VS. OUR 1NT
[Intermediate Version]
In many classes, I get asked, "Larry, what should we
do when they use a Convention (such as CAPPALLETTI, or DONT against our Strong
Notrump?) There is no fast answer. To cope with interference, you need to do a
little studying and memorizing. (Otherwise, be prepared for some accidents). You and
your partner have to come to some agreements.
It is impractical (unless you are a world-class bridge pro)
to try to memorize different schemes versus different methods. For example, to play System-A
against DONT, but System-B against CAPPALLETTI, and System-C against Brozel
would be too much memory drain.
Here is a simple scheme to deal with any kind of
interference--you can choose parts or all of it. For a more complete (and more difficult
scheme), click here.
They DOUBLE
If they double 1NT (as a convention), don't even bother
asking what the ALERT means. Just ignore them. I mean I-G-N-O-R-E! All your bids
mean what they would have meant without the artificial double. If 2 would be a transfer, then it is
still a transfer. If 2NT would be a transfer then it is still a transfer. Just
pretend they passed.
[If they PENALTY Double 1NT, then just play ALL NATURAL --
no Stayman, no Transfers. Use XX as a rescue/runout]
They Bid 2
You can also ignore ALL 2 overcalls. You double to say, "They stole my
bid." So, double is Stayman. All other calls mean what they would have meant if the
opponent had passed.
They Bid 2 or Higher
If they overcall 2 or higher, I suggest you abandon transfers completely. Bid
naturally (and if you know lebensohl, you can use it). Play DOUBLE as
"negative." It would take too long to explain exactly what qualifies as
"negative." But, here is a simple explanation: It is NOT penalty. It is
not purely showing the other major(s). It just means, "Partner, I have values to bid,
but no bid I can conveniently make."
This scheme is not 100% complete, but it will help you cope
with most situations with a minimal amount of memory strain. If you want a more thorough
treatment, click here (but I warn you to be prepared
for a headache).
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