5 card Stayman

This is used when partner opens 2NT.

Very strong hands (20+ HCPs,) which are essentially balanced but include a 5 card major suit are best opened 2NT because they are unlikely to fit the requirements for a strong 2 opening in that suit. ( playing tricks in a rule of 25 hand.)

For example holding

ªKJ2

©A8765

¨AKJ

§A4

The answer is to open 2NT showing 20-22 HCPs, or if the hand is stronger to open an Acol 2§, and rebid 2NT.

There is now the possibility that, in opening 2NT, you may miss a major suit fit if partner has 3 card support for your 5 card suit.

5 card Stayman comes into play here – it allows partner to check for 4 or 5 card major suits.

Opposite a 2NT opener, partner bids 3§ if holding 4 points and either 3 or 4 cards in a major suit.

2NT opener replies

3¨ Denying a 5 card major suit but promising at least one 4 card major.

3© or 3ª Showing 5 cards in the suit bid

3NT showing no more than 3 cards in either major suit.

Following a 3D response both partners bid 4 card suits “up the line” until a fit is found or 3NT is reached.

Checking for a major suit fit before diving in to 3NT could save you a lot of frustration.

Also bidding 3NT direct tells the opposition that you do not have a 3 card major so it may help them to find the killing lead.