With many thanks to Liz McGowan who has kindly provided the hands and commentary.

Over the next few months hands will be posted which demonstrate Declarer Endplay.

Endplay is a valuable technique in the armoury as the lead is made, dummy goes down and options are evaluated for a maximum result.

Number 11 in a series of Endplays.

W             N                 E                   S

-           2NT               Pass              6NT

All Pass

East leads a safe ♣ J.   There are 11 top tricks and a 12th will appear if spades, hearts or clubs break 3-3,

failing which you may fall back on the diamond finesse.  Win ♣ A and cash ♠ AQJ, then cross to ♥ A to play ♠ K on which all throw diamonds.  

Next cash ♥ K and ♥ Q, and note that east shows out.  Cash ♣ Q and ♣ K, noting that east has four clubs.

You no longer need the diamond finesse - endplay east with the fourth club to lead a diamond into your AQ.