Bridge

What is the most advantageous attribute for a great Bridge player? Is it maths, or memory? I like the answer Sweden’s Peter Fredin gives: ‘Imagination.’

We’re not talking about the kind that lets you imagine you’re the best player in the world, but rather the ability to see how things look to the opponents. Peter has been gifted with a lot of imagination (both kinds actually!)

Here’s a hand he showed me from a Pairs event at the Swedish Bridge Festival, while making a poor effort to keep a straight face.

Note that the first act of deception started in the bidding; instead of describing his hand to his partner to try and find the right cards, North preferred to keep his assets hidden from the opposition*. Nevertheless West hit on the killing Club lead.

The next step towards deceiving the defence was nonchalance – not giving anything away when dummy went down. A smooth: ‘Thank you partner!’

Peter won the first Club and the ♠J hit the table.