[rd6789]

Playing 2/1 with a new partner (no system discussed) how do I show 18-19 balanced after

1. 1X-(p)-1Y

obvioulsy 3NT yes? But what about after

2. 1X-2Y (not a jump) say 1♠ - 2 ♦

still 3NT?

nb If I had discussed in detail I would play 2NT here as either 12-14 or 18-19

3, does anything change if fourth hand comes in?

say 1♠ - 2 ♦ - (2♥)


I don't play 2/1 that much but twice on bbo my partner has seemed suprised when I put down 18-19 after 3NT on auctions 2 and 3


Was it me or them?

[gwnn]

1. No, 3NT shows a good hand but one that relies on his long and good suit. 2NT shows 18-19 balanced. (and 1NT shows 12-14)

2. You should rebid 2NT which shows 12-14 or 18-19. Partner assumes 12-14 and you will bid "unexpectedly" later on like ...2NT-3NT-4NT
3NT is traditionally used as a picture jump, 15-17 with 5332.

3. No, you do the same. But you can also use double for penalties (which may or may not be more attractive with 18-19 balanced)

[helene_t]

On action 1, 3NT shows a strong one-suited hand (too strong for 3X), usually with a singleton in partner's suit. 18-19 bids 2NT.

Auction 2 is a matter of agreement.

Auction 3 I dunno but I would expect 2NT to show extras, even if it does not in the uncontested auction.

[rd6789]

yeah sorry i realised after posting 2NT is the bid on 1.

But I also wanted to ask about

1♣ - 1♦ - (2♥)

3NT now must be 18-19?

[helene_t]

No, 2NT is 18-19, pass is (a.o.) 12-14.

3NT is still a strong one-suiter.