TAKEOUT DOUBLES EXAMPLES OF WHEN TO MAKE A TAKEOUT DOUBLE
By Peter Rhead
Last week we reviewed the Takeout Double. The objective of the Takeout Double is to show partner that you have support for the unbid suits when the opponent opens the bidding with a suit and you have shortness in that suit. You also must have at least ten points to Double.
This week we have examples of some hands where you must consider whether or not to use the Double for Takeout after the opponent opens with a suit bid.
Case 1:
Spades x
Hearts xxxx
Diamonds KQJ
Clubs Kxxxx
Case 1: Your right-hand opponent opens One Spade. You have ten points including a length point. You have four cards in the other major suit. You are short in the opponent’s suit. You meet the criteria to Double for Takeout. Your Takeout Double tells partner you have at least ten points and support for the unbid suits and shortness in the opponent’s suit.
Case 2:
Spades xxxxx
Hearts xxx
Diamonds KQJ
Clubs Kx
Case 2: Again your right-hand opponent opens One Spade. You do have ten points including a length point but you are not short in the opponent’s suit. This time you have no bid. You PASS.
Case 3:
Spades xxxx
Hearts xxxx
Diamonds KQJ
Clubs KQ
Case 3: Your right-hand opponent opens One Club. You have shortness in Clubs and four-card support in both majors and eleven points strength. You Double for Takeout. You are happy with any suit your partner chooses to bid.
For more complete information, check out “Takeout Doubles” in Barbara Seagram’s 25 Bridge Conventions You Should Know P. 21
Next Week: More examples of when you could use the Takeout Double
If you wish to promote an activity in your Bridge group or ask a Bridge question, send the information to vrhead23@gmail.com and I will try to include it in this column.
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