Polish Club - 1NT Opening

1NT Opening

15–17 HCP

• Stayman 2♣

Opener’s 2♥ does not deny four spades. Responder’s subsequent bidding is natural: forcing at the 3-level, non-forcing at the 2-level. Also: 1NT - 2♣; 2♦ - 2♠ = invitational (7–9 HCP), 5 spades, 4 hearts, and 1NT - 2♣; 2♥/2♠ - 3♦/3♥ = transfer, agrees Opener’s suit, GF

• Jacoby transfers 2♦/2♥

Transfer to hearts (2♦) does not deny five spades. Responder’s new suit at the 3-level forces to game. Also: 1NT - 2♦; 2♥ - 2♠ forces to 3♥ (8+ HCP)

• 2♠ response – transfer for clubs. Opener may choose between a positive 2NT, and a negative 3♣. Responder may continue by showing shortage.
• 2NT response – limit
• 3♣ response – transfer to diamonds, weak or strong Opener is obliged to bid 3♦. Responder may continue by showing shortage.
• 3♦ – natural, inviting
• 3♥/3♠ – 5431 convention: GF, both minors: at least 5-4, shortage in the bid suit