After writing about improving everyone's experience in casual games and tournaments, I’d now like to share a few thoughts on playing privately arranged online team matches.

These might be friendly matches between two teams of four friends, practice challenges ahead of a big event, or even official matches within a competition. In England, for example, we have a few national year-long knockout team tournaments, and I assume other countries do too. Before the pandemic, early rounds were often geographically seeded so teams wouldn’t have to travel far. But once a team progressed, long-distance travel was almost inevitable. Nowadays, many of these matches can be played online—with BBO being the most popular platform—except for finals, which are typically face-to-face.

These matches fall somewhere between casual and tournament play. On one hand, they’re expected to follow the rules set by national or international bridge organizations (even friendly matches should comply). On the other, they’re usually less formal than a clocked tournament with a director on hand (if one is present at all).

I’ve always advocated for full disclosure of agreements, though I also recommend keeping things simple. While it’s always better to attach a convention card to your profile, I don’t find them particularly useful in timed games with or against strangers. Reading a full list of bidding and carding methods for a short match can be time-consuming—and time is precious when boards can be removed if unfinished.

But in a private match, a full convention card becomes a must. It’s common courtesy to present one to your opponents, even if they don’t read it thoroughly. Ideally, system cards should be exchanged by email before the match so each partnership has time to prepare. If that’s not possible, or if the card is unclear, I suggest all four players take their seats at least five minutes before the start time. This gives everyone time to greet each other, examine opponents’ cards, and clarify any questions.

I've had several frustrating experiences—both online and face-to-face—when players arrive at the last minute, spend ages reading my system (which isn’t that complicated!), and then longer still discussing how to counter unfamiliar conventions. This eats into the time dedicated to play. Some may argue that when playing from home, time doesn't matter—but it does. Everyone expects a match to finish around a certain time.

If starting early isn’t possible, set aside time for system discussion at the beginning. Agree on it—and stick to it.

Once play begins, remember to self-alert and explain your bids. A convention card doesn’t replace the need to highlight calls that might be misinterpreted. And if you’re unsure about a bid, ask—but send a private message to the bidder. Avoid leading questions like, “Was 2NT a raise in hearts?” It’s more courteous to ask, “How do you play 2NT in this position?” Suggestive questions can make players second-guess themselves and might even cause a bidding error. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way.

If you’ve received your opponents’ card in advance, print it out and keep it nearby. It’s often easier to refer to notes on paper than to scroll on screen. If that’s not possible, and you struggle to remember details, try jotting down brief reminders. For instance, make a note of their carding methods or unusual bids. If they don’t play transfers, for instance, write that down and stick it to your computer. It’ll save you time—and spare your opponents the irritation of answering the same question multiple times. Just remember: you may not consult your own agreements during play, exactly as you wouldn’t in a face-to-face match.

Once again, please consider your tempo. Even if you’re playing from your sofa on a leisurely morning or evening, delays still matter. Others might have plans—even if it’s just going to bed at a certain hour. Be considerate: spoiled plans lead to unhappy players.

That said, team matches do offer more flexibility than a pairs tournament or a fast-paced casual game. The boards need to be completed, but without the clock breathing down your neck. Just avoid persistent slow play or excessively long pauses. Playing from home is not a reason to get up and do chores or manage family affairs in the middle of a hand. Everyone is giving their time to the match—they shouldn’t be left staring at a screen, waiting for someone to come back.

If you get disconnected and know it might take a while to return, call your partner. They can let your opponents know, and that helps everyone stay calm. A timely apology can work wonders.

You can see the first article [here] and the second article [here].

About the author

Nevena is a multiple World and European champion, having played for Bulgaria, Great Britain and England. She teaches bridge to all levels, both face to face and online.