BridgeHands

Backward Finesse - A finesse tactic played in the opposite direction of the natural procedure.  The backward finesse may be beneficial when anticipating the other opponent is holding certain honors, or when playing "against the field" (shooting) by risking a low-odds play, seeking to boost the standing of the pair.

	K J 9
10 7 5 4	Declarer: South	Q 8 6
	A 3 2

Normally, the declarer would finesse the SJ in Dummy.  However, if bidding or play suggests the finesse will fail, consider the Backward Finesse.  Declarer crosses to Dummy and leads the SJ.  If East covers, declarer wins the SA and finesses toward the S9 winning 3 tricks.