In a game of bridge, the dummy plays a very particular role. The dummy is the player whose cards are laid face up on the table after the final bid, but they no longer actively participate in the play of the cards. However, this does not mean that they have no role to play. The dummy has certain specific rights that govern their passive participation and interaction with the declarer.
1. What is the dummy in bridge?
The dummy is the declarer’s partner after the final contract has been decided. Once the lead is played, the dummy lays their cards face up on the table, sorted by suit, so that all players can see them. From that moment on, the dummy no longer makes active decisions regarding the play of the cards. The declarer plays for the dummy, using both their own cards and those of the dummy.
2. Rights of the dummy during card play
Although the dummy does not actively play, they have several rights during the game, allowing them to ensure the smooth running of the game and that the rules are followed. Here are the main rights of the dummy in bridge:
A. Follow the game
The dummy has the right to carefully observe the progress of the game. Even though they do not make decisions, they can watch what each player does and must be ready to play the cards requested by the declarer.
B. Ask questions about the bidding or play
The dummy has the right to ask questions about the bidding or play if an irregularity is suspected. For example, if they notice that a card was played incorrectly or that the rules are not being followed, they can ask for clarification.
C. Correct an irregularity
If an irregularity occurs and the dummy notices it (such as a card played out of turn or an incorrect call), they have the right to request a correction. This ensures that the game follows the rules and that all players adhere to the correct flow of the game.
D. Protect the declarer’s interests
The dummy can intervene if they believe that the declarer’s interests are not being protected. For instance, if the declarer plays an incorrect card due to a misunderstanding, the dummy can point out the mistake.
3. What the dummy cannot do
In addition to their rights, the dummy also has certain limitations. The dummy’s role is generally passive, and they must not actively influence the course of the game. Here’s what the dummy cannot do:
- Give advice: The dummy is not allowed to advise the declarer on which cards to play or what strategy to adopt. They must limit themselves to playing the cards requested by the declarer.
- Play autonomously: The dummy must not play any cards on their own unless the declarer specifically asks them to do so.
- Be involved in strategic decisions: The dummy is not permitted to suggest a line of play or intervene in the declarer’s decisions.
4. The responsibilities of the dummy
The dummy also has certain responsibilities to ensure that the game proceeds smoothly. Here’s what the dummy must do during the game:
- Lay out their cards properly: After the lead, the dummy must display their cards face up, sorted by suit, so that all players can easily see them.
- Play the requested cards: The dummy must play the cards designated by the declarer, without commenting or influencing their choices.
- Report irregularities: If a rule is not followed, the dummy has the responsibility to report the irregularity to ensure the game runs smoothly.
5. When can the dummy speak?
The dummy can speak in specific situations. They must remain silent for most of the game but can intervene in the following cases:
- To ask for clarification if a rule has been misapplied.
- To correct a mistake made by the declarer or opponents.
- To report an irregularity, such as a card played out of turn or a revoke.
| Rights of the Dummy | What the Dummy Cannot Do | Responsibilities of the Dummy |
|---|---|---|
| Observe the progress of the game | Advise the declarer | Lay out their cards properly |
| Ask questions about the rules | Play cards on their own | Play the cards requested by the declarer |
| Report an irregularity | Be involved in strategic decisions | Report errors or irregularities |
| Request a correction |
The dummy, while passive, plays an important role in bridge. They must ensure that the rules are followed and protect the declarer’s interests while staying out of strategic decisions. Knowing when and how to intervene as the dummy is essential for ensuring a smooth and rule-abiding game.
