[Phil]

Had this combo during a teaching session:

KT8

753

Where the Ace was likely on the right and LHO didn't know much about your hand. I explained the deep finesse of the 8 was a better play than the 10 or the K, because of the greater likelihood of Q9/J9 on your left.

However, it seems that the play of the J or Q from J9/Q9 by LHO is really a free play here, don't you think?

Further, if LHO has AJ9x / AQ9x, declarer seems certain to get this one wrong if LHO plays the J/Q.

I've never seen this in print, although I have seen in one of the Killing Defense books, the lead of the Q or J from Q9x(x) / J9x(x), followed by a small card after a re-entry.

[Gerben42]

Quote

I've never seen this in print, although I have seen in one of the Killing Defense books, the lead of the Q or J from Q9x(x) / J9x(x), followed by a small card after a re-entry.

Interesting position. I guess the lead of a small card from QJxx is more common theme here.

[Fluffy]

Never noticed this combo before either, nice one.

[jdonn]

Of course LHO needs an idea of your holding, if you had a stronger holding (say AJx) then he might look rather dumb playing the Q from any holding, especially Qx if you have already counted him for shortness.