Response to the opening bid after opponent’s double
The opponent’s take-out double significantly alters the meaning of the responses to the opening bid. The fact that the opponent also has at least 12 HCP and considers more competitive bidding later leads us to bidding with a different perspective. We will study how different bids are modified in this case and how to react the most effectively possible as a function of our hand.
Deal 1
East dealer. South doubles.
After the adverse double, West’s bid of a new suit on the two-level is not forcing anymore. It shows a hand with 7-10 HCP and a six-card suit.
Given that East has a minimum and therefore not enough points to hope winning a No-trump contract, he passes without bad feelings.
Deal 2
West dealer. North doubles.
East must inform his partner that he has a fit and a hand that is worth the equivalent to 12 points. But careful, a jump raise to the three level is a pre-empt after the opponent’s double and shows a weaker hand than this one. The solution is to use the Truscott 2NT response. This bid usually guarantees a four-card fit and a limit raise with 11-12 points, including distribution. Knowing about the fit, West can now upgrade his hand to 16 points and readily accepts the invite.
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