Defense Vs Notrump
This is the 18th in a series of articles taking the reader through the ACBL Convention Card.
When the opponents open 1NT, there are many options. Only the newest and natural bidders would go without a convention here. I'm the last one to push conventions, but this is an area high on my list where I recommend playing "something."
It is hard to memorize two different systems, but if your defense against a strong notrump doesn't employ a strong double, you do need that option available against a weaker notrump.
I suggest playing the same methods, but allowing lighter actions in balancing seat.
For example, suppose you overcall with 2
to show and either major, and the next player doubles. What do "advancer's" actions mean? What is Pass? What is Redouble? In such a situation, I'd suggest: Pass="diamonds -- to play." XX="pick-your major" 2
= "my own heart suit--I don't care if you have spades -- don't correct" 2
= "my own spade suit--I don't care if you have hearts -- don't correct"
I suggest that direct seat actions show either a good hand (like an opening bid) or very good/long suits. It is too perilous to get involved with, say, king-empty fifth in one suit and queen-jack-fourth in the other. Exercise caution when vulnerable.
My experience says that you should be very aggressive in this position. Don't let them play 1NT. Balance! Accordingly, if your partner dutifully balances over 1NT, don't hang him. Let him out in a partial. Don't A 4NT bid to ask for aces (or in RKC, keycards) Blackwood him into a grand slam.
, treat it as Stayman. If he pulls your double to 2 or 2, treat is as a Jacoby transfer. For more on defending against a weak notrump, see the end of this article.Regardless of the method you use, be sure to discuss and agree with your partner on items #1-6 above. Interfering with the opponents' notrump is an important area that occurs frequently. As a side note: Be prepared for their interference over your 1NT!