Previously, we talked about one of the most interesting actions in bridge – bidding for slam, which is definitely a whole level higher and even more exciting because the stakes are very high. In order to bid and make slam (six-level bid) you need a total of 33 points between your two hands – or a really fantastic distributional fit. Since it is unlikely one hand will hold 30-plus points, the key to slam bidding is communication between the two partners.
In the bidding above, (1) north opens one spade (13-21 points). South holds 17 HCP and four spades in support of north’s bid; adding one dummy point for the diamond doubleton yields 18 points and immediately brings to mind the possibility of slam. South communicates this by (2) invoking the Jacoby 2NT convention. The partnership may NOT stop bidding until they at least reach game. North understands and (3) bids 3D demonstrating control over diamonds. (4) South bids 4C demonstrating control over clubs. (5) North bids 4H demonstrating control over hearts.
South becomes serious about going for slam and invokes the Blackwood Convention, asking for aces by (6) bidding 4N. (7) North responds 5H showing two aces. At this point, if South doubted the possibility of making slam, South would sign off by bidding five spades. Instead, south takes the plunge and asks about kings by (8) bidding 5NT. (9) North responds 6D showing one king. Holding only three of the four kings, south wisely stops at small slam by (10) bidding six spades, then everyone passes. The contract is six spades in the north.
The most damaging lead possible is a diamond because then north could lose one diamond and one club. North realizes this, so wins with the ace to gain control. North might have a third loser if trump is not drawn – and that forms north’s plan, namely, clear out trump, then run the hearts and discard one of the losers on the long hearts – contract made.
Are there other ways of bidding a slam? Of course. But the most important thing is for you and partner to know at least ONE way to bid slam – after that, bridge life becomes easier and more exciting.
Good luck and good bridge.
