2007-08-12 22:50

Hand Evaluation – Doubles ( Scrambling )

PITBULLS:

T/O doubles normally have a “shape” criteria, when you double a major , you should have the unbid major etc. There is no criteria for “shape” with D.S.I.P. competitive double theory. You double because you have cards ( defensive values measured in quick tricks ) & not specifically for T/O . This means you must have some scrambling techniques to find your spot when you wish to pull the double. Equal level conversion is brought into the picture as you bid up the line to find your fit. You open 1♣ on ♠Axx ♥AK ♦Axx ♣QJ10xx with everybody vul. They overcall 1♠ , partner passes & they bid 2♠. You have way too many values not to compete , so you double to “show cards “. A 2NT bid by open is a specialized bid here showing a long minor & “playability” for a NT contract. A double shows the values for a 2NT bid & gives partner more options.

These D.S.I.P. competitive doubles need help to find a fit , since the fit is not pre-announced as with T/O or negative doubles. The most common tool used by responder is the “scrambling 2NT” when they have the spade suit. With the heart suit in the opponents’ hands, the scrambling 2NT shows specifically the minors. Using this tool , means if partner bids a suit after partner doubles in these auctions , she is shows a 5 card or longer suit. When you have the two unbid suits 4-4 or 5-4 , you try the scrambling 2NT. Say in the above auction , you have ♠xx ♥xxxx ♦Qxxx ♣Kxx so you bid 2NT as a scramble. Partner bids 3♣ so as she bid the suit it is probably 5 cards in length so you pass . Change the double to the more classic “shape T/O dbl”. ♠Axx ♥AKxx ♦Ax ♣QJ10x , responders hand to ♠xx ♥xxxx ♦Qxxxx ♣Kx so how do you find the heart fit ? You scramble to it by bidding suits up the line. Responder bids 2NT after the D.S.I.P. double. You bid 3♣ so responder bids 3♦ & you now correct the contract to 3♥.

Do not confuse the scrambling 2NT with Lebensohl used with the good bad 2NT. These are entirely two different concepts. The scrambling 2NT is used with card showing doubles or balances mostly vrs the bully suit spades. . It is a scrambling tool not unlike equal level conversion or the scrambling 2♣ bid when you are running. A D.S.I.P. competitive double says I want to compete & I have defense. The double has no outside suit requirements so finding a fit becomes an art form. Use all available tools for the job. A 2NT bid as natural is , of course , ridiculous as you would have bid 1NT going in or passed the double.

When you do not use the scrambling 2NT & bid a suit does this show extra strength ? No , this route means that you have a longer suit but not extra strength. Change responders hand to ♠xx ♥xxxxxx ♥Qx ♣xxx so this is a 3♥ bid after opener doubles. Add more strength & you should have bid 2♥ or made a negative double in the first place.