Yes, We’re Open

Dealer: South
Neither side vulnerable

North  J 8 7 3  7  Q J 10 9  A Q 7 5
West  6 4  Q J 10 4  8 7 6 4  J 9 8	East  9 5  A 9 8 3 2  A K 2  K 10 2
South  A K Q 10 2  K 6 5  5 3  6 4 3

South	West	North	East
1Â	Pass	3Â	Pass
4Â	All Pass

Opening Lead:  Q

“Lead a club at the second trick, hoping I have the jack,” the Cynic snapped. “We need a club trick before declarer uses the diamonds.”

“You need to keep an open mind,” East said.

“Some open minds should be closed for repairs,” Cy retorted.

Who was right?

Really, nobody. As the cards lay, East could win out by leading a club at Trick Two, but if South had only two hearts, six minor-suit cards and the jack of clubs, a club switch would be disastrous. Sometimes no “correct” defense exists, only a winning defense.

DAILY QUESTIONÂ

You hold:
9 5
A 9 8 3 2
A K 2
K 10 2
. Your partner opens one diamond, you bid one heart and he rebids two diamonds. What do you say?

ANSWERÂ
Six diamonds might be a fine contract if partner has exactly the right minimum hand. He might hold A 6 4, K 4, Q J 10 7 6 4, A 4. More likely, you should look for your best game, which might be 3NT. Bid three clubs. If partner bids 3NT, pass. If he does anything else, head for game or slam at diamonds.

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