Ekren 2♣
Ekren is an artificial preempt showing 4+ cards in each major. It is originally at 2♦. Polish Club 2020: Expert moves it to 2♣ to replace Precision 2♣ and leaves space for Multi.
| 2♣ - | |
|---|---|
| 2♦! | (R): INV+ or equal preference |
| 2NT | NAT INV |
| 3♣! | FG, 3+♥ |
| 3♦ | NAT NF, 6+♦ |
| 3♥♠ | COMP, 4+# |
| 4♣! | STR COG |
| 4♦! | PRE COG |
The 2♦ relay asks for distribution or parks any invitation. The step for 6+♠ is moved down to 2NT, so responder can still invite 4♥ with 3♥.
| 2♣ - 2♦ - | |
|---|---|
| 2♥ | 4=♠, 4–5♥ |
| 2♠ | 5=♠, 4–5♥ |
| 2NT! | 6+♠ |
| 3♣! | SPL, 0–1♣, 5=♠, 5+♥ |
| 3♦! | SPL, 0–1♦, 5=♠, 5+♥ |
| 3♥ | 6+♥ |
The 3♣ relay is a fast ask for hearts because 2♦ already quickly asks for spades. Smolen-like rebids let the strong responder declare.
| 2♣ - 3♣ - | |
|---|---|
| 3♦! | 4=♥, 4=♠ |
| 3♥! | 4=♥, 5+♠ |
| 3♠! | 5+♥ |
There are two kinds of choice of games:
- 4♣ by strength
- 4♦ by distribution
Such distinction helps judging how to react to interference. Besides, 4♣ lets the strong hand declare. On the other hand, 4♦ closes the auction ASAP.
| 2♦ - 4♣ - | |
|---|---|
| 4♦! | TRF, ♥ ≥ ♠ |
| 4♥! | TRF, ♠ > ♥ |
Competitive bidding
It is more useful and possible to play 2♣x than 2♣xx. The ask hence relocates to XX while pass is to play.
| 2♣ (X) | |
|---|---|
| XX | (R): INV+ or equal preference |
| P | NAT, 5+♣ |
| 2♦ | NAT, 5+♦ |