Minor Suit Transfers #13-36

IMPROVE YOUR PLAY

With Larry Matheny

Transfer bids have been around since the 1950’s and used primarily for the major suits. Minor suit transfers are now popular and can be very useful.

Scoring: Matchpoints (Pairs)

#13-36
Dlr	W
Vul	Both

	98
	8
	J109532
	AQ54

	642
	AK103
	8764
	63

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	KJ53
	Q9762
	Q
	J72

	AQ107
	J54
	AK
	K1098

West	North	East	South
Pass	Pass	Pass	1NT
Pass	2NT*	Pass	3
Pass	3	Pass	3
Pass	4	Pass	4
Pass	5	Pass	Pass
Pass

*transfer to diamonds

Bidding: I was North and responded to partner’s 1NT by transferring to diamonds. My partner’s 3 bid was a “super accept” showing maximum values and a diamond fit. I now thought game was possible so I continued with 3 to show a singleton or void. My partner knew notrump was no longer a target and he next cue bid a spade control. I did the same in clubs and after his 4 bid, I signed off in game.

Play: West led the ace of hearts before shifting to a trump. The diamond queen was singleton, the spade finesse worked, and the clubs broke favorably so my partner quickly wrapped up the contract with an overtrick.

In a local game, only two pairs reached game. The minor suit transfer is a valuable tool.