Michaels cue bid is a bridge game convention that indicates certain two-color games after an opening of 1 in a color by the opponents. The convention is named after Mike Michaels and uses the cue bid.
The convention means that the cue bid after an enemy 1 ♣ or 1 ♦ opening indicates both high colors and after 1 ♥ or 1 ♠ opening the other high color and one of the low colors. Most couples say that the colors are at least five cards and that it is a constructive bid, about 8-14 points. For example, 1 ♥ -2 ♥! then show at least five card kicks and a five-card clover or window.
Many couples play Michaels in combination with Unusual 2SA. With respect to Ghestem, the advantage is that 3 ♣ will be available as a natural bid and the two high-level playable levels will be available at 2-level. The disadvantage is that the Ghestem Convention specifies exactly which colors one has and that the combination of low-color combination is not indicated after a 1 ♣ or 1 ♦ opening.
When the left opponent fits, the partner will support the high color or one of the high colors with a fit. The 2SA response is conventional and requires low color.
An extensive response schedule after, for example, 1 ♥ -2 ♥! pass is:
Only after 1 ♠ -2 ♠! there is no longer the space to invite with 3 ♥. It is the couple to make further arrangements through the 2SA relay.
For the opponents, the convention gives at least one cue-bid. A widely used defense is to indicate the corresponding high color, inviting or better. A direct bid in a high color is then not strong. After for example 1 ♥ -2 ♥!
When both high colors are indicated after, for example, 1 ♣ -2 ♣! there are two cue bids and a defense can be played analogously to the unusual 2SA.
An '!' stands for a conventional bid to be advertised.
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