[pdoubi]

My partner opens 1H (we play 5-card major openings). RHO overcalls 1S. I have 8+ points, 2 cards in hearts, 4 small cards in spades (no stopper), and 4-3 in the minors. What do I bid?

[nige1]

'pdoubi 'What do you bid'
++++++++++++++++
I rank
1. Pass = Sensible.
2. Double = Partner may expect 4+ cards in each minor
3. 2♥ = Partner may expect 3+ ♥s.
4. 1NT = Wrong-siding mis-description.

---

[pdoubi]

nige1, on 2020-December-09, 09:03, said:

'pdoubi 'What do you bid'
++++++++++++++++
I rank
1. Pass = Sensible.
2. Double = Partner may expect 4+ cards in each minor
3. 2♥ = Partner may expect 3+ ♥s.
4. 1NT = Wrong-siding mis-description.

---

What if you have 12 points with 2 hearts, 4 small spades, and 4-3 in the minors?

[paulg]

I think nige1's hand is a clear double: you want to compete and have working values in all the other suits. It is easier to get over these values now rather than have to make a decision if partner, say, rebids two hearts or LHO finds a one no trump response.

However it is the doubleton heart honour that makes this so attractive, since you can always return to hearts if partner responds in your three-card minor.

You can take the same route if your values are concentrated in the minors, but the upside is reduced because the likely heart game is less likely.

Holding four spades I feel you are somewhat protected with nige1's first choice of pass although you might feel a little uncomfortable if LHO finds a raise and it comes back to you.

Hopefully I've conveyed the unease I feel with any specific response to your question: there are many criteria, mostly soft ones, that would guide my decision on an actual hand.

[pescetom]

pdoubi, on 2020-December-09, 10:13, said:

What if you have 12 points with 2 hearts, 4 small spades, and 4-3 in the minors?

I double with that, but I don't share paulg's enthusiasm about doubling with the hand nige1 posted (for me a clear pass).

[Zelandakh]

While a popular approach is for a Double to show both minors, it is imho much simpler for normal club players to use it as a Support Double, showing values and a 7 card heart fit.

[morecharac]

pdoubi, on 2020-December-09, 08:36, said:

My partner opens 1H (we play 5-card major openings). RHO overcalls 1S. I have 8+ points, 2 cards in hearts, 4 small cards in spades (no stopper), and 4-3 in the minors. What do I bid?

How much +?

[nige1]

pdoubi, on 2020-December-09, 10:13, said:

What if you have 12 points with 2 hearts, 4 small spades, and 4-3 in the minors?

pescetom, on 2020-December-09, 11:20, said:

I double with that, but I don't share paulg's enthusiasm about doubling with the hand nige1 posted (for me a clear pass).

Agree with Pesceton's double - the least misdescription.