Modern Notrump rebid ranges after a Two over One response

Traditionally after (say) 1 ♥ -2 ♣, a 2 NT rebid shows 15-16 and a 3 NT 17-19. This is unwieldy, the jump to 3 NT cutting out investigation for alternative games (slams).

Think about it: a two-over-one response shows about 10+ points, and the notrump rebid shows 15+ (you’ve opened 1 NT with 12-14). 15+10 = 25: you’ve got the values for game!

Therefore it makes sense to play a 2 NT rebid eg 1 ♥ -2 ♣-2 NT as forcing (to game). So why restrict it to 15-16? Play the 2 NT rebid as 15-19 — and now you have the three-level available for investigatory manoeuvres.

How you decide to play 1 ♥ -2 ♣-3 NT is a secondary consideration. I’d recommend it as showing a fit for partner’s response in a 15-19 balanced hand (so four-card support for clubs/ diamonds after eg 1 ♥ -2 ♣/♦ ; and three-card support for hearts after 1 ♠-2 ♥ , which shows five hearts).

Exercise: 1 ♠-2 ♣-

(i) 2 NT. 15-19 balanced. Partner now has room to explore for eg a 5-3 spade fit.
(ii) 2 NT. 15-19 and forcing to game.
(iii) 3 NT. 15-19 balanced with a club fit.

Click to play this deal

In 4 ♠, declarer ducked ♦ 4 lead to East’s ♦ J, won ♦ Q with ♦ A, ruffed ♦ 9 with ♠ 2, cashed ♠ K, crossed to ♣ A, cashed ♠ AQJ and forced out ♥ A. Eleven tricks.