BRIDGE

MATCH POINT STRATEGY
PART II: MAJOR SUIT OR NO TRUMPS

In IMP scoring or in rubber bridge we would rarely choose no trumps over a five-three or six-two major suit fit. However, in matchpoint scoring we must keep in mind the possability of scoring 430 instead of 420.
There are two factors to consider when determing whether to play in the major or in no trumps. First, if we can not reasonably expect to get a ruff in the hand with fewer trumpsplaying in the major. Second, if we have a reasonable expectation of not losing control of the hand in no trumps (stoppers).
Here are two possible auctions:
NORTH: AK1062 K3 AJ8 KJ9 SOUTH: Q98 Q105 Q765 Q102

NORTH   SOUTH
1   2
3NT   P

NORTH: AK1062 K3 AJ8 KJ9 SOUTH: Q98 5 Q765 Q10762

NORTH   SOUTH
1   2
3NT   4

You can see that both partners must cooperate. If the responder does not 'bid his hand' the partnership will play in some bad contracts.