Friday, June 30, 2006 7:20 PM

Playing The Vulnerability – Jumps

PITBULLS:

In IMPS , you must play the vulnerability in order to be considered as tough opponents. Opponents should not get “free rides” to use their methods to get to optimum spots when they are vul vrs nv. They should also not get free rides if partner is a passed hand or if they own the auction on any vulnerability. The corollary to this way of thinking is that on all other vulnerabilities , the partnership should be disciplined so partnership trust can be preserved.

Playing the vulnerability means that opening bids , overcalls & pre-empts become lighter to enter the fray initially. Jumps become pre-emptive rather than invitational on these auctions. Partnerships give each other much more leeway on this vulnerability. The opponents are vulnerable and your side is not & the auction goes 1♦-P-1NT-2♦ X-? The 2♦ bid by partner is either a light T/O or a two suiter in the majors. A double of course would have shown a good hand with the majors. What do you bid with ♠xxxx ♥x ♦xxx ♣KJ10xx ? What not show partner your 4^th spade with a pre-emptive jump to 3♠ ? You would have redoubled with a good hand so the jump on this vulnerability is being a nuisance against vulnerable opponents.

4♠X is an excellent sacrifice against a vul 3NT or your nuisance bidding might keep them out of bidding their 3NT. The original NT bidder on this auction had a super maximum and might be tempted to double 3♠ for penalty and that is not a success for them as you can escape for one down. The vulnerability does change your bidding system You have one style for 3 out of the 4 vulnerabilities and one style for favourable vulnerability. Use it to your advantage .