The Flannery 2♦ opening
     
 
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The Flannery Two Diamonds Opening

 
 
♠ AJ76 Popular in the States. 11-15 points and specifically 4-5 in the majors. For some reason, some Americans seem to find this hand shape difficult. I simply don't see the problem, open 1♥ and partner will bid 1♠ if there is a fit there. Agreed, a 2♦ opening is very specific and enables responder to enquire about your strength and minor suit distribution, but this really is squandering an otherwise very useful useful opening bid.
♥ AK962
♦ J7
♣ 32
   
   
 
     
 

Flannery is defined as 11-15 points with 5+ ♥'s and exactly 4 ♠'s.

 
     
  Responder can sign off in 2♥ or 2♠ , raise (pre-emptively) to 3♥/♠ or 4♥/♠ or relay with 2NT.  
     
 

The responses to the 2NT relay are: -

 
     
 
3♣/♦ = 3 card ♣/♦ suit
3♥ = min, 4522
3♠ = 46xx where x = 0,1,2 or 3
3NT = max, 4522
4♣/♦ = 4 card ♣/♦ suit
     
There are variations of the above replies.
For more detailed information, read the book by the inventor of the convention.
     
 
 

Defense to Flannery

 
 

There are a few possibilities, one popular one is: -

 
     
 
dbl = 15+ balanced
2♥ = three-suited take-out
2♠ = natural (5+ card s suit)
2NT = minors
 
     
     
 
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