Dubious Logic

No double, no trouble

The twenty-fifth Felixstowe Congress has just ended and a true to its history, a lot of people had a good time playing bridge by the seaside. The full results will follow next week, let's have a look at some bridge.

Coincidences abound in the cards and we humans are very good at spotting patterns. That is part of the reason that deals produced by computer have engendered a suspicion despite their growing frequency in events and the easy production of 'prayer sheets' – the hand records available to all afterwards. This pair were indeed produced by machine and may or may not confirm your prejudices but they will certainly solidify my reputation as a reluctant doubler:

The defence was enjoyable after the club lead was ducked to keep alive hopes of making the contract. I obtained a diamond and two club ruffs and still had a trump to come – down four. Why no double? Well the modern treatment is to reserve double to show values and offensive strength, allowing partner to judge whether to bid on. Note West's responsible decision here. Still, such trump holdings are a rarity are they not?

North's hand – quite a good one by any reckoning - was humbled into taking just two aces, three top trumps and a long one. Another four off, declarer unable to make a contract of even one heart. At the other table the auction was different yet the principle was much the same:

North-South were not to be denied their best trump suit - East's call didn't have to be a psychic, just Jxxx and game would be fine. This time East didn't double as it was far from certain the opponents were not having a bidding misunderstanding. The defence started with two top diamonds and North could have a made seven tricks but again ended up with just six.

Published Saturday 8.Oct.2005