Responding to 1 Club

Playing matchpoints. Neither you nor the Opponents are vulnerable.

Here is your hand:
♠K74
♥KQ6
♦762
♣9432

Partner opens the bidding 1♣. The Opponents are silent during the auction. What is your call?

Show Answer

1NT. This should show a hand with no four card major and 6 to 10 HCP (High Card Points). Which is EXACTLY what you have.

Note that responding 1NT does NOT guarantee a balanced hand EXCEPT over 1♣.

Over 1♣ if you are unbalanced you can bid your suit -- either at the 1 level OR by supporting Partner's ♣ if that is your long suit.