Cappelletti is a defense against a 1NT opening.
This convention is particularly recommended for use against a weak 1NT opening (12-14 HCP) but can be used against stronger 1NT openings (15-17 HCP). The range for Cappelletti overcalls is 9-14 points. Over the 1NT opening, the intervening opponent in either second or fourth position makes one of the following artificial overcalls to show a one-suited or a two-suited hand:
2 ♣ shows a one-suited hand (usually 6 or more cards)
Response bids:
Pass = at least 6 clubs
2♦ = (most common response) allows the overcalled pass or correct to
his long suit, or
2♥/2♠ = a good 5 or 6 card suit, or
2NT = 11+ hcps plus support for all the suits. Overcaller is invited to bid
game with a maximum
2♦ shows both major suits (at least 5-4 or 4-5)
Response bids:
Pass = at least six strong diamonds
2♥/2♠ = choice of suit, non-constructive
2NT = asks for the 2♦ bidder’s better minor
3♣ = at least six strong clubs
3♥/3♠ = invitational, promising four or more trumps. (It is possible,
however, to play this bid as preemptive, in which case 2NT
would be used as an invitational relay.)
2♥ shows hearts and a minor (at least 5-4 or 4-5),
2♠ shows spades and a minor (at least 5-4 or 4-5),
After 2♥/2♠, a new suit is natural, non-forcing; a raise is 7 to 10
HCP; 2NT asks for the minor, but if followed by three of the
major, promises 10 to 12 HCP and invites game. 2NT shows
both minor suits (at least 5-5).
After 1NT-2♣-Dbl, a redouble should be for rescue. Pass and 2♦ are natural, showing real clubs and diamonds respectively.
With 15 or more points, a Double for penalties is recommended over the 1NT opening; generally showing 15-17 or 16-18 points based upon partnership agreement.
SOURCES:
- "Conventions", The Official ACBL Encyclopedia of Bridge, 7th ed. Horn Lake: American Contract Bridge League, Inc., 2011, page 272-273. Print
- Wikipedia contributors. "Cappelletti convention." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 5 Aug. 2013. Web. 29 Oct. 2013.