Double !, on Aug 29 2005, 03:55 AM, said:
I have a question, please.
I have not played multi or minimult, so I ask to learn.
Why is Pass not an option on this hand? Why would not Pass deny a top heart honor while bidding 2H [or 3H] (which I assume is pass or correct) show a top heart honor? P rates to be on lead based on the bidding so far.
TYIA
Most play that passing 2Dx shows diamonds and partner will usually pass. This increases safety (helps you stay out of 6-0 fits and the like) and perhaps puts more pressure on the opps (they have fewer options & must act now).
Some sort of lead direction being built in instead seems like an ok idea. Note that bidding 2!S would say you like hearts (but only want to play 2!S opposite spades), so 2!H being lead directing for hearts is a bit funny. If something is going to be lead directing, I'd recommend pass: then you still play the hand in the more likely event that you're not lead directing, and also advancer is more likely to play the contract when you are (since must bid now [edit -- this doesn't make any sense]). As for whether it should be lead directing for hearts or spades, dunno.
Actually, a thought occurs to me: if you lead direct for a suit presumably you've got something like Qx. What if this is not pard's suit? Then you've located a card for the opponents (e.g. give pard xxx ... I suppose this isn't so terrible since usually they'll finesse you for stuff, but it's still something and what if they count out the hand and find pard is 3-6-2-2 and decide the Queen is more likely to be with the length). Something to keep in mind.
Andy