The Magnificent Multi

Yesterday, techno tourist Mark Newton asked if we could help him to compile a list of the ten software programmes that have changed the world. That set me thinking about innovations that have changed the way we play bridge. The technological advances of the last 30 years or so have been tremendous, but there have also been developments at a more basic level.

In the field of conventions the emergence of the Multicoloured 2♦ must rank as one of the most important. It can be a tough nut to crack, as this deal from the third session of the General World Pairs Championship demonstrates to perfection:

Board 24

Dealer: West Vul: None	North ♠ 7 3 2 ♥ 10 9 2 ♦ 5 4 ♣ K J 8 7 4
West ♠ Q J 10 9 6 4 ♥ K J 5 ♦ Q 10 ♣ 9 5		East ♠ A K 8 5 ♥ Q 8 4 3 ♦ J 9 2 ♣ 10 3
	South ♠ — ♥ A 7 6 ♦ A K 8 7 6 3 ♣ A Q 6 2

2♦ Multi

3♥ Pass or correct

Declarer made his contract with an overtrick, but with the room playing in clubs, +150 was worth only 6/64.

How can South get both his suits into the game? (Several pairs bid 6♣ and one managed a magnificent 7♣ .)

If you double, a spade bid by partner will force you into some sort of retreat.

Even if as happens here West bids 3♠ and partner passes you still have a problem.

Could you risk a direct 4NT? Speculative to be sure, and if partner bids 5♣ are you going to pass?

Recalling a deal from New Orleans earlier this year it finally struck me that the obvious call is 6♣ !