Preemptive openings: general principles and philosophy

It is not enough to reach the right contract when you have a strong hand. It is just as important — and sometimes highly rewarding — to disrupt the opponents when your only asset is a long suit capable of generating tricks. Handling these preemptive hands well, without misleading partner, is an art in itself. Here, we will review the main principles.

Starting the battle: a decision to weigh carefully

Choosing to open the bidding at a high level can have serious consequences, especially if it leads your side into costly sacrifices.

To avoid disasters — including the famous “crème renversée” — it is logical to always take two criteria into account:

• vulnerability;
• the offensive and defensive value of your hand.

Principle no. 1: limit outside defensive tricks

A preemptive opening should never contain more than one outside defensive trick.

Example 1

♠ KQJ9652
♥ 2
♦ J104
♣ 98

No outside defensive trick. Neither side vulnerable: a perfect 3♠ opening.

Example 2

♠ 42
♥ A98653
♦ Q74
♣ K6

A dreadful 2♥ opening. The two defensive tricks — the Queen of Diamonds and the King of Clubs — may help defeat the opponents’ contract.