Lesson 7(a) - When responder takes charge

Opener's rebid after a shift

- now responder is master of the auction

Responder's simple shift to a new suit says, 'I have 6-15 points (10-15 at the 2-level). I’m searching for the right strain for us to play in, and I’m forcing you to bid again.' 

Opener does not have enough informa­tion to take charge after a shift. After a raise, yes.  But after a shift, no. Instead, opener must make a rebid that furthers the description of the shape and strength of the opening hand - a limit bid - so that responder can take charge next bid and be the master of the auction.

 

Opener's choices after a shift

In order to describe more about shape, opener: 

(1)   Raises responder's suit with a 4+card fit. 

(2)  Bids a third suit of 4+cards at the one-

      level, or at the two-level if at least 5-4 or       4-4-4-1. 

(3)   Bids notrumps if the hand is balanced(ish). 

(4)   Repeats a long (ideally 6+) opened suit if single-suited.

 

At the same time opener must show strength, whether the hand is

mini (12-15TP),

midi (16-18TP)

or maxi (19+TP)

remembering to reassess the strength when there is a fit, adding distribution points where applicable.

 ***Any conflict between showing strength and shape is resolved in favour of showing the correct strength.  

¨    Opener's choice of rebids - in order - with a mini opening after responder's shift 

(1) Simple raise responder's suit with 4+ fit.  

e.g. After 1¨:1©,  bid 2© with

ªAJxx  ©QJxx  ¨Axx  §Jx 

(2)  Bid a 4+ major at the one-level.        

       e.g. After 1§:1©,  bid 1ª with

       ªAKxx   ©x   ¨KJx   §KJxxx 

(3)  Make a minimum notrump rebid with a balanced(ish) hand of 12‑14 HCP.   

e.g. After 1©:1ª  bid 1NT, after 1©:2§ bid 2NT with    

ªKxx   ©AJxxx   ¨KJx   §JT 

(4) Bid a 4-card suit lower-ranking than your opening suit at the two level only if you have at least 5/4 in your two suits. 

e.g. After 1¨:1ª  bid 2§ with

ªQJx    ©x   ¨KQxxx   §AJxx

but rebid 2¨ with ªQJx  ©AJxx  ¨KQxxx  §x

because hearts rank higher then diamonds. 

(5) Rebid a 6-card suit, rarely 5.

     

e.g. After 1¨:1ª  bid 2¨ with        ªJx   ©AJxx   ¨AQJTx   §xx 

but choose 1NT, NOT 2© with       ªJx  ©AJxx  ¨AJxxx  §Qx