KK wrote: Hello! While playing bridge the other day with my regular group, my partner bid two clubs, the next player bid two hearts, then I passed because I didn’t have any points (as did the next player).
A debate ensued as to whether or not I was allowed to pass vs. bidding.
What is your take on the situation?
David responded: I am assuming that partner's 2C bid was artificial, either a game forcing hand or at least showing a strong hand with say 19 or more HCP, but not necessarily showing clubs.
The purpose of you having to bid in this situation is to give the opener a chance to describe their hand further given that most often they will not have clubs. In the case of the game forcing opener partner may have an even stronger hand that needs nothing from you to make game or even slam. Hence these bids are described as forcing and a low level response (commonly a "negative" or "relay" bid such as 2D) from you would promise no values as you are forced to bid.
However in this case your right hand opponent has entered the bidding - and in doing so gives your partner the chance to bid again even if you pass. As a consequence you are no longer in a forcing situation and any call you make should mean something/describe your hand. Given partner's strength you don't need much to make a positive bid, but if you have nothing at all to show then pass is the best descriptive call to make. That gives partner the best information on which to decide whether to bid on or to pass or double.
Hope this helps.
