Modified Cansino Defense Method

The origin of this modification of the Cansino defense method is unknown. The original defense convention is attributed to Mr. Jonathan Cansino and Mr. Jeremy Flint. The bridge student would be prudent to compare this modified version with the original version.

This variation is also a defense method used after the opponents have opened a 1 No Trump, especially against a weak No Trump opening with 12 to 14 high card points or even a No Trump range of 10-12 high card points. This idea is to discover, as soon as possible, a 7-card fit at least in one of the four suits, and preferably an 8-card fit.

The guidelines for this modification, has been designated as Modified Cansino, are as follows, and differ from the original concept in only several features. Source is: David Stevenson.

Opener		Overcaller		Meaning
1 NT		Double		Penalty Double. Partner must pass.
		2		Promises Clubs and two higher-ranking suits: /, or /, or /.
		2		Promises Diamonds, Hearts and Spades; a three-suited holding such as 4-4-4-1 or 4-4-5-0.
		2		A natural bid with a long Heart suit.
		2		A natural bid with a long Spade suit.
		2 NT		A game-forcing bid with a two-suited holding in both Minor suits.
		3		A natural and preemptive overcall meaning long Clubs.
		3		A natural and preemptive overcall meaning long Diamonds.

Any suit bid higher than 3 Diamonds is not employed for showing a stronger holding as in the original concept, which is also an extension / evolution of the original concept. These features may be added at the discretion of the inidividual partnership and become part of the agreement.

If you wish to include this feature, or any other feature, of the game of bridge in your partnership agreement, then please make certain that the concept is understood by both partners. Be aware whether or not the feature is alertable or not and whether an announcement should or must be made. Check with the governing body and/or the bridge district and/or the bridge unit prior to the game to establish the guidelines applied. Please include the particular feature on your convention card in order that your opponents are also aware of this feature during the bidding process, since this information must be made known to them according to the Laws of Duplicate Contract Bridge. We do not always include the procedure regarding Alerts and/or Announcements, since these regulations are changed and revised during time by the governing body. It is our intention only to present the information as concisely and as accurately as possible.