The Aces on Bridge: Friday, 20 February 2026

Even playing constructive raises, with a shapely hand like this, one should raise directly in my opinion. With a singleton on the side, I feel like I have slightly too much playing strength merely to give a preference for hearts later, which is what I would do with a doubleton in hearts and no ruffing value. However, without the useful building cards in my two long suits, I would bid a forcing no-trump.