Any questions, partner?

It's always a good idea to make your opening lead face down just in case you got it wrong and aren't on lead. Having selected your lead, though, you cannot change it even if you haven't faced it yet.

Whilst your lead is face down, partner or declarer may ask questions or ask for a review of the auction but, contrary to popular belief, this is not their last chance to do so.

Partner or declarer may ask for a review of the auction when it is their turn to play. This right only expires when they, themselves, play a card. Throughout the game, whenever it's your turn, you can ask a question about the meaning of any opponent's bid or playing agreements. You can also ask what the contract is and whether it is doubled or redoubled (but not by whom).

Note: Once the lead is faced, the auction is over. Partner can no longer investigate whether it really is your lead and/or whether there was an infringement which means that the auction isn't finished - but these are the only rights which expire when the lead is faced.

Back Copyright © Keith Sheppard, 2001