Bidding Conventions >
Roche
Roche is a convention for use after the opponents have opened 1NT. It's fairly simple: A
2
overcall shows 12-14
HCP, balanced or semi-balanced, with 3+ clubs. All other overcalls are natural.
The idea behind Roche is to try finding game opposite an ACOL
weak 1NT when your side holds two (semi-)balanced, 12+ point hands. Playing traditional methods, the auction might otherwise go
1NT-Pass-Pass-Pass.
Responses to the 2
overcall
- Pass shows 4+ clubs, no 5-card suit, and no interest in game. For example, a weak 4333.
- 2
/
/
show 5+ cards in the bid suit, and are non-forcing.
- 2NT is invitational.
Origins
Roche originated in the UK but I don't know who (or where) it was named for. I also cannot find more information about the 3-level responses. Presumably they show good hands with invitational or game-forcing values. If you have any idea, please let me know.
Roche has since become obsolete in tournament play, in favor of more advanced 1NT defenses like
DONT and
Brozel.