Bridge
12 October, 2026
Unconventional pre-empts
Opposite a passed partner, you don't need to "play by the rules" with pre-emptive bids.
Opposite a passed partner, you don't need to "play by the rules" with pre-emptive bids. Consider this deal. With neither side vulnerable, after 1♦️ by your left-hand opponent, pass by partner and 1❤️ by your right-hand opponent, what should you bid?
You have a powerful hand and really don't need much from partner to be able to make 4♠️. Overcalling a "normal" 1♠️ isn't going to tell partner that; overcalling 2♠️ is just weak; so why not try 3♠️?
The full deal is below: as you can see, a jump to 3♠️ makes life very difficult for West, who doesn't dare to raise to 4❤️ with a balanced 12-count when partner could have just a minimum responding hand.
What should now happen is that partner should join the party and raise to 4♠️! That buys the contract. Of course 4S is down one, but East-West are cold for 11 tricks in hearts …
When partner has passed and you might gain by pushing the opponents around, you can "pre-empt" with a strong hand and a long suit.
Rakesh Kumar
The Southern Highlands Bridge Club runs three duplicate sessions every week (Mon 1:00 pm, Wed 6:30 pm, Sat 1:00 pm) at the East Bowral Community Centre. Highlands players and visitors welcome!
For more information: https://shbc.bridgeaustralia.org
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