Bridge

In the division one Hinden v de Botton match, the latter team gained a big swing when they played in 4H making in one room and 4S by East down two in the other room. The hand is of more interest played in 5H, as could easily have happened on an auction like the one shown.

1NT shows 12-14, the double 15+ and East 3S is weak and preemptive. The next interesting bid is North’s forcing pass over 4S. Why is it forcing?

North has shown 15+, then South has bid game; it makes no sense to allow East-West to play undoubled in 4S. So the only logical reason for North to pass is to invite South to bid on to 5H or  else to double.

West leads the spade king, taken by the ace. Declarer draws trump in two rounds and can now relax, since  as long as the diamond  ace is onside (very likely on the bidding), the contract  is guaranteed.

Ruff a spade in hand and lead a diamond to the king. When it wins, give up a diamond. West will play a third round, so you ruff, lead a club to the king, ruff dummy’s last diamond and exit with a club towards the jack. No 4-1 or 5-0 club break can stop you making three tricks in the suit.