Balancing X

After 1 of a suit opening followed by 2 passes, a X is for takeout, but may be made on a hand which is weaker than a direct takeout X.  If the hand is minimum it should have support for all other suits.  If it is strong enough for another call, it may have support for 2 suits only.  With strong 1 suited hands we balance with a single jump (see Balancing Jump). After a 1  opening and 2 passes:

A432                KT9              QJ75

J7652              AQ43            KJ

6                       54                 76

KJ3                  T432            K9754

Bal X                  Bal X               Bid 1

The 3rd hand lacks heart support for a X and although the clubs are longer a 1 balance is preferred, lest the spade suit get lost.

Compiled by Lorne Russell 2005