Forum Question 2

3S response to 2NT opener?

This question was asked to: Julian Pottage

Question

I’m keen to try out with my regular partner that a 3S response to a 2NT opener shows at least 5-4 in the minors with slammy values. However, I’m not sure of the optimum responses from the 2NT opener to this bid. Could you advise please?

Answer

If opener has a lot of cards in the majors or many soft values (queens and jacks) then opener signs off in 3NT. With support for at least one minor and reasonable good controls, opener bids 4 of a minor. Since responder has shown both minors, the suit opener bids counts as agreed, so the partnership can cue bid or check on key cards as appropriate.

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