2.2 When They Interfere after 1NT

Bidding After Artificial Systems: Double or 2♣, Unspecified One Suit

Most of your opponents will be playing some sort of artificial convention over our 1NT opening. Many of these systems use Double or 2♣ to show an unspecified one-suited hand. This is definitely the weak link in their system — because partner does not know which suit, he can’t compete. We can exploit this weakness further by keeping all of our constructive sequences.

After an artificial double of 1NT, redouble says we should explore the possibility of defending (usually balanced 7-10 HCP without a source of tricks), and all bids keep their original meanings with Stayman and Transfers still on. If you pass, and then double their next bid, this is a light takeout — probably 5-7 HCP with support for the unbid suits.

After an artificial 2♣ overcall, Double is Stayman, and all other bids keep their original meanings with Transfers still on. If you wish to penalize them, Pass and Double their next bid.

Bidding After Artificial Systems: 2♣ or 2♦ Showing Both Majors

West	North	East	South
	1NT	2♣	?

Pass	Poor hand
2♦	To play
2♥	Raise to 2NT with a stopper in hearts
2♠	Raise to 2NT with a stopper in spadesr
2NT	Lebensohl, relay to 3♣ to play
3♣	Natural and forcing
3♦	Natural and forcing
3♥	Raise to 3NT with a stopper in hearts
3♠	Raise to 3NT with a stopper in spades
3NT	Strength for 3NT, at least 4-4 in the minors, no major suit stoppers

Note that we do not have a way to show a raise in NT with both Majors stopped. The reasoning is that if we have that many points in the Majors we should probably defend.

Example auctions:

West	North	East	South
	1NT	2♣	Dbl	Desire to defend
2♥	Pass	Pass	Dbl	Penalties

West	North	East	South
	1NT	2♦	Pass
2♥	Pass	Pass	Dbl	Takeout

West	North	East	South
	1NT	2♦	Dbl	Desire to defend
2♥	Dbl			Penalties

West	North	East	South
	1NT	2♦	Pass
2♥	Dbl			Nonsense, who asked you? Partner is the captain.