Jeff Tang: scubasteve1975 "@" hotmail.com © 2007
Home > Bidding > Meckwell Escapes

Meckwell Escapes comprise an escape system for use after your side has opened or overcalled 1NT (natural) and the opponents have doubled for penalty. After the double, responder bids as follows:

Pass Shows clubs or diamonds or both majors. Partner is required to bid 2.
XX Natural.
2 At least 4-4 in clubs and a higher suit. Partner can pass or correct to 2 asking for the higher suit.
2 At least 4-4 in diamonds and a higher suit. Partner can pass or correct to 2 asking for the higher suit.
2 Natural, at least five hearts.
2 Natural, at least five spades.

Responder's rebids after the sequence

1NT X Pass! Pass
2C

Pass Shows at least five clubs.
2 Shows at least five diamonds.
2 Shows at least 4-4 in hearts and spades. Partner can pass or correct to spades.

With 4-3-3-3 shape, responder can either treat his four-card suit as a five-card suit, or he can treat his four-card suit and his best 3-card suit as a two-suiter.