[gnasher]

han, on 2011-October-29, 16:34, said:

I'd overcall 1H on the first one, what are the four flaws? As I see it, this hand satisfies the cherdano rule: 10-14 HCP, non-vulnerable, a very good suit and not suitable for a double.

When you overcall on a four-card suit, you risk that partner will overcompete, compete in the wrong suit, or lead the wrong suit. These risks are increased by the quacky holdings in the side suits, and by the possible fourth-round heart loser.

Quote

I had the third one at the table and doubled. Why do you hate this Frances? I consider it the most automatic of the three, but gnasher considers it also the most controversial.

As Frances says, it has a bad spade holding. It also doesn't have diamond support.

[nigel_k]

1) Marginal double but I probably would. 1♥ overcall is ok but not really my style.

2) Automatic double

3) Style issue but I would always double.

[Fluffy]

frank0, on 2011-October-29, 21:59, said:

What's the whole auctions(or even better whole hands)? Maybe it's not a problem with X/pass/overcall but the problem of later auction.

first hand partner has

♠KQ9xx
♥xxx
♦10xx
♣Jx

And makes a stupid defence to 1NTX allowing to endplay the doubler for -380

second partner has

♠Axxxx
♥xxx
♦xxx
♣xx

RHO redoubles with a good 6124 and partner escapes to diamonds, then to hearts. Actually the problem here is my partner passed as dealer with 12 HCP, but I knew everyone would disagree with the pass so post the problem at the next point.

Third partner has:

♠K9xx
♥xx
♦7xxx
♣8xx

and bids a direct 2♦, perhaps your escape system lets you pass and play 1NT or 2♣ wich are better.

[whereagles]

I would be very tempted to bid 2S with pard's hand on 1st.

2nd and 3rd... oh well. Better luck next time