A simple bidding problem this week

NORTH (none vulnerable)

6 5

A J 10 8 4

Q 6 3 2

K 3

would you open the bidding:

a) as dealer?

b) after one pass?

c) after 2 passes?

d) after 3 passes?

As weak hands go, this is not a bad one: You can indicate the best lead with your first bid, and you have an easy rebid over anything that partner might do. 

So should you open this hand in any position at the table? Devotees of the 'rule of 19' ( add the number of points to the number of cards in your 2 longest suits) will say yes, and those who prefer the 'rule of 20' will never do so.

The best answer probably lies in between!

In first position, there is an equal chance that either side has the balance of points. When no-one is vulnerable, it usually pays off significantly if you become the declarer, so many experts would open this hand as dealer.

In 2nd seat, there is an equal chance that you will create problems for your partner as you will for the opposition (one opponent has already passed, and is somewhat out of the equation) Probably best to pass in the long run.

In 3rd position, partner has already passed, and it  becomes important to help them with the opening lead, so it's prudent to open this sort of hand.

In 4th position, you should apply the rule of 15 (add your number of points to the number of spades in your hand, and pass if the result is under 15) The reasoning is that spades is the highest-ranking suit, and can outbid any other suit at the same level. You have only 2 spades, and if you open the bidding, you are about to hear that either partner has them (bad news) or the opponents has them (even worse news!)