1 |
Opp 1 3 |
? |
Opp 2 |
1 |
Opp 1 3 |
? |
Opp 2 |
1 |
Opp 1 3 |
? |
Opp 2 |
This situation normally calls for a penalty double or negative double, if you happen to play them through the 3-level. However, the philosophy behind thrump doubles is that probing for 3NT is more practical than showing a 4-card major. Thus the thrump double shows a balanced 10+ points that asks opener to bid 3NT with a stopper in the opposing suit.
The thrump double denies a 5-card major if responder has the opportunity to bid
Opener | Responder | ||||
KT876 | 92 | ||||
A943 | QJ5 | ||||
AJ3 | 542 | ||||
Q | AKJT8 | ||||
Opener 1 3NT (2) |
Opp 1 3 All Pass |
Responder Dbl (1) |
Opp 2 Pass |
Playing negative doubles instead, you might be forced to pass or bid
The drawback to thrump doubles, however, is that you can miss 4-4 major suit fits:
Opener | Responder | ||||
KT876 | A2 | ||||
AQ43 | KJT2 | ||||
AT3 | 54 | ||||
9 | QJT83 | ||||
Opener 1 |
Opp 1 3 |
Responder ? |
Opp 2 |
Here you would be happy to make a negative double and find your 4-4 heart fit.
On rare occasion, you can use the thrump double as a waiting bid with a big hand. You may have an enemy stopper and interest in slam, but no other suitable call.
Thrump doubles were created by American expert and teacher Marty Bergen.
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