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Equal Level Conversion Doubles - Normally when the overcaller makes a
takeout double, the doubler promises 3 or more cards in the unbid suits.
However when the partnership agree to play Equal Level Conversion Doubles (ELCD),
the doubler is allowed to have shortness in the Club suit - provided
the overcalling doubler has 5 Diamond. This allows the doubler to
rebid Diamonds when partner (advancer) responds in the Club
suit - overcaller's short suit. Playing normal takeout doubles, a new suit bid after a double
promises 18+ points and a self-sustaining suit. The nomenclature
"Equal Level" is derived from the notion that the doubler is able to correct
advancer's Club response to Diamonds at the same bidding level.
Note - ELCD only applies when the overcaller doubles with shortness in
Clubs. After overcaller's takeout double and advancer's bid in another
suit (other than Clubs), a new suit bid by the overcaller still promises a
very strong hand and a self-sustaining suit - strong suggesting a rebid by
the advancer.
|
Bidding |
Meaning |
|
(1H) - X - (P) - 2C;
(P) - 2D |
Classic Equal Level
Conversion Double, overcaller holds:
- 12+ distribution points
- 4 cards in the unbid major (Spades)
- 5 Diamonds
- Shortness in Clubs S
A K 3 2
H 4 3 2
D A J 10 3 2
C 2
|
|
(1S) - X - (P) - 2C;
(P) - 2D |
Another typical Equal
Level Conversion Double, overcaller holds:
- 12+ distribution points
- 4 cards in the unbid major (Hearts)
- 5 Diamonds
- Shortness in Clubs S
4 3 2
H A K 3 2
D A J 10 3 2
C 2
|
|
(1S) - X - (P) - 2D;
(P) - 2H |
Overcaller holds a power
hand with 18+ points and a self-sustaining suit with strong interest in
game: S 2
H A K Q J 3 2
D A K J 4
C Q 2
|
|
|
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Equal Level
Conversion Doubles was created by Robert Ewen, described on page 25 in
Doubles For Takeout, Penalties, and Profit in Contract Bridge. Also see
Takeout Doubles,
Doubles and books on
Doubles |
