The Bridge Zone - 28-10-2026

The Bridge Zone – Episode 435 Lysandra Zheng received a 12-month suspension from playing, directing, and kibitzing after being caught cheating online - the topic is raised and we discuss next week • New ranking rules will regrade approximately 18–20 frequent intermediate players to open/limited status, causing significant frustration due to short notice and impact on restricted tournament eligibility. The Jinn Man - Otago Tour Highlights • Does the Double The Jinn Man picks up plenty of B points winning both the Otago intermediate pairs (with Deirdre Oliver) and the teams (with Graham Dale and Blair Corlett) during a successful Otago Bridge tour. • Club Visits: o East Taieri, Otago and Balclutha The Bridge Zone Talks with Murray Wiggins – NZB Board Member on Player Rank and Tournament Changes • District Master rank created for current Local Masters with 5 or more A-points. 8 • Novice grade introduced for players who have not yet obtained a certificate of proficiency. 9 • Restricted grade split from the Open grade; it includes Provincial Masters, Masters, and National Masters as of January 1 each year. 310 • Club Masters will remain Junior players even if they have 5+ A-points, reversing a previous rule that automatically made them Intermediate. 311 • Limited tournaments will allow any pairing except those where both players are Provincial Master or above (Open/Restricted players). 45 • Restricted tournaments are intended for Restricted players and below, providing a competitive environment for those who might avoid Open events. 12 Judge Julie rules • Partner mis-explanation (declaring and defending side) • Uncertainty about a bid • Appeals process Got some news or feedback, flick us an email [email protected] Plenty to listen to, just click and hear our discussions See you at the tables The BZ Crew