Bidding over 1NT

Here is your hand:

♠9843
♥J9
♦AJ83
♣KQ9

Playing matchpoints you are not vulnerable.

Partner opens the bidding 1NT. The opponents are silent during the bidding.

If you and your Partner are playing Stayman then the question is:
What is your call? Do you bid Stayman in order to ask about such a lousy four card suit?

Show Answer

If you bid 2♣, Partner will respond 2♠ and you can then bid 4♠. You will have found your nine card fit.

If you simply bid 3NT then Partner can go down if the Opponents find a ♥ lead.

Partner's hand?

♠AQT62
♥A52
♦KQ9
♣J3



Some might argue that Partner should not open 1NT with a five card major but it is hard for Partner to show 16 HCP once they open 1♠. If they open 1♠ and Partner bids 1NT should they "Pass"? Partner could have 9 or 10 HCP and they will have missed a game. Should they rebid 2NT? That shows 18 or 19 HCP. They are not strong enough. It is easier to show the point count by opening up the bidding 1NT. You will never find a five-three major suit fit that way but you should find a five-four fit because Partner should bid Stayman.