Hand 19 - 1NT vs 1 of a Major (Hearts)

This is chapter 19 in the story of my attempt to determine if it is better to open 1♥ or 1NT with 15 to 17 HCP and a five card ♥ suit.

The journey started with this post:
Later On

Here is the ninteenth hand I generated:

Hand 19

	North ♠T85 ♥5 ♦AK862 ♣QJT4
West ♠A72 ♥KJ4 ♦T975 ♣875		East ♠J963 ♥T732 ♦Q3 ♣A93
	South ♠KQ4 ♥AQ986 ♦J4 ♣K62

Dealer is South and E/W are vulnerable.

Double Dummy:
2NT can make by N/S
2♠ can make by N/S
2♥ can make by N/S
3♦ can make by N/S
3♣ can make by N/S

Analysis

If South opens up 1♥ North will bid 2♦ to show 10+ HCP. I said with 15 that South would rebid 2NT. Now North will "Pass" -- they have nothing extra.



What happens if South opens 1NT?

North will put them in game with their 10 HCP.

On best defence 3NT will go down so it is best to not get too high.

So I am going to give 1♥ the win here. You have a better chance of staying low.

To see the table where all the hands are listed click HERE!