Bidding Boxes

This post is in regard to the bidding boxes and when to replace the cards back into the box after the clarification period.

Law 20 C Review after Final Pass

20.C.2 Declarer or either defender may, at his first turn to play, require all previous calls to be restated. 

When using the pads the pad is turned over after the third player has played to the first trick which complies with law 20.C. 2. 

When we introduced the boxes, I ensured that the players left the card displayed on the table until the third person had played to the trick which took some convincing as the cards from the bidding boxes are awkward and players tend to want to get rid of them as soon as possible.

Recently we had advanced players play at our club who were adamant that this was wrong and insisted on putting the cards away as soon as the opening lead was faced.

I had a look online and there seem to be a lot of clubs that put the cards away as soon as the opening lead is faced so some leave them on the table until the third person has played .

My question is, is there an official ruling for his or is it up to the director to decide when to pack the cards up. I think that leaving the cards on the table until the third player has played is according to the law.

I have always found it frustrating when playing at a tournament where the cards were packed up after the lead as I like as the third player to review the auction when it is my turn to play.

Thanks,

Marion

Started by MARION ARLIDGE on 27 Apr 2025 at 10:46AM