Structure 7G66 by Richard Pavlicek

Three Diamonds 5-5 in Majors

In a Nutshell

Playing minor-suit transfers (2 NT to clubs, 3

to diamonds) leaves an idle 3

response to 1 NT, which I use to show 5-5 in the majors (game forcing). An obvious advantage is to make 1 NT bidder declarer no matter which fit is found (opener sets trumps), plus it defines in one bid what otherwise takes two. Responder can next indicate his splinter with slam interest.

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Details

The 3

response to 1 NT shows at least 5-5 in the majors and game-forcing values. This does not apply over 2 NT.

West
1 NT
? North
P East
3 South
any

•

•
Call
3 , 3
3 NT
4 , 4

4 , 4
Rdbl Meaning
normal action; indicates better fit
natural; extreme strength in minors
excellent fit (either major); no control
in other minor
excellent fit; both minor-suit aces
penalty suggestion

West
1 NT
any North
P
any East
3
? South
any

Call
3 , 3
3 NT
4 , 4
4 , 4
4 NT
Meaning
natural (rare)
natural (honors in short suits); NF
splinter; slam interest
game interest only; NF
natural over 3 NT
Blackwood otherwise

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