BRIDGE MASTERCLASS

What would you lead from this hand against South’s 3Nt contract after the unrevealing auction of 1Nt-3Nt? I took this hand from a review copy of what is ostensibly a complete reference book on bidding and play. I feel unable to commend it to readers because, apart from the hefty price tag, it is in some parts too complex for beginners and, in others, too simplistic for good players — and it gives, in my view, some very unsound advice on Pairs play.

the above example comes from the section on opening leads, and you are advised to opt for a ‘fourth-best’ ♣5.

obviously, any lead might hit the jackpot after such an auction. Yet there is no reference to the more practical and common sense alternative of ♥J — or even ♠10. the limited evidence of the bidding marks partner with at least four hearts (no Stayman enquiry) and up to 11HCPs.

Unless you are lucky and can set up clubs, the ♣5 is more likely to concede a trick. Whereas using your lead advantage to set up partner’s suit could give your side a vital tempo.

As a general rule, when your partner is known to have some values and your hand is virtually worthless, lead to help his hand rather than your own.