Responding to a Big, Balanced Hand

Here is your hand:

♠K95432
♥932
♦8
♣643

Playing matchpoints and you are vulnerable. The Opponents are silent during the auction.

Partner is Dealer and opens the bidding 2♣. You bid 2♦ just to see what Partner has to say. Partner bids 2NT which should show 22 to 24 HCP with a balanced hand.

You have agreed to play Jacoby Transfers so decide to bid 3♥. Partner dutifully bid 3♠. What is your call?

Show Answer

I know you are weak but Partner has at least 22 HCP remember? You have enough for a game. You need to decide where to play that game.

How about 4♠? You have a fit. Partner must have two ♠ in order to have a balanced hand.

If you bid 3NT instead Partner will "Pass" (they only have two ♠) and go down. Bidding 4♠ will result in Partner taking 10 or 11 tricks.