Myxomatosis Two Bids

Myxomatosis is a system of multipurpose two-bids based on transfer preempts. Opening bids at the 2-level commonly show a weak two in the next higher suit, but may also represent strong or two-suited hands. Myxos qualify as a Brown Sticker Convention (BSC) under WBF rules.

Many strains of Myxos abound. Here is one possible matrix.

Opening	Meanings (ACOL)	Meanings (Strong Club)
2	An ACOL 2 opener A weak two in diamonds 5/5 in and , 5-10 HCP	10-15 HCP, 6 clubs Same Same
2	An ACOL 2 opener A weak two in hearts 5/5 in and , 5-10 HCP 21-22 HCP, balanced	10-15 HCP, 6 diamonds Same Same N/A (Open 1)
2	An ACOL 2 opener A weak two in spades 5/5 in and , 5-10 HCP	Same Same Same
2	An ACOL 2 opener A weak three-bid in clubs 5/5 in and , 5-10 HCP	Same Same Same
2NT	5/5 in and , 5-10 HCP 5/5 in or , 5-10 HCP	Same Same
3	A weak three-bid in diamonds	Same
3	A weak three-bid in hearts	Same
3	A weak three-bid in spades	Same
3	Gambling 3NT	Same
3NT	A minor suit preempt (4/)	Same
4	Namyats	Same
4	Namyats	Same

Note that the 3-level bids are optional and up to partnership agreement.

Additionally, some partnerships use 2NT as a natural strong bid, and remove this hand type from the 2 opening. Hands with 5/5 clubs and hearts are then shown by a 3 opener, and 5/5 diamonds and spades are shown by 3.

Myxos are forcing for one round. Responder should assume that opener has a weak two, the most frequent hand type.

• "Accept" the transfer by bidding opener's presumed suit. This is a signoff. Opener can bid a new suit to show a different hand pattern (or 2NT after 2 : 2).

• Any new suit shows 6+ cards and is non-forcing.

• 2NT is artificial, strong and forcing. Opener should bid his natural suit (weak or strong), or the cheapest one if holding a two-suiter.

Myxomatosis was invented in the 1970s by Dr. Bob Sebesfi of Australia, who also created the SWINE convention. Technically speaking, Myxomatosis is a disease used by the Australian government to control the country's rabbit population. The crossover reference to weak bridge players was described by Alan Truscott in a 1983 bridge column about Dr. Sebesfi in the New York Times.