Structure 7G70 Main

Three Diamonds 5-5 Majors

by Richard Pavlicek

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 the 1 NT opener declarer no matter which fit is found (opener sets trumps), plus it defines in one bid what otherwise takes at least two. With slam interest responder next can indicate his splinter.

In Detail

After a 1 NT opening, a response of 3 shows at least 5-5 in the majors and GF values. This does not apply over 2 NT.

1 NT
? Pass 3 Pass

3 3
3 NT
4 4

• better fit, normal action
extreme minor strength, NF
great fit, both minor aces

1 NT
3 Pass
Pass 3
? Pass
analogous for 3 rebid

3
3 NT
4 4
4 •

two singletons, ST
honors in short suits, NF
shortness, ST
sign-off

1 NT
3 NT Pass
Pass 3
? Pass

4 4
4
4

shortness, ST
no slam interest, NF, correctable
sign-off

After a double

1 NT
? Pass 3 Dbl

Pass
Rdbl
Other

no diamond control
5+ strong diamonds, suggest to play
unchanged

Structure 7G70 Main Top Three Diamonds 5-5 Majors