Changes to WCBU Policy on Misclicks

Saturday, 24 July 2021 by Brian Paxton

The WCBU policy on MISCLICKS in WCBU events has been changed. Effective 1st August 2021, genuine misclicks will be allowed during the bidding only. Misclicks during play will only be allowed in the Friday sessions for players with a BBO ranking of 2+ or less.

At the inception of online bridge in March 2020, the WCBU allowed players to request an UNDO in those situations where they accidentally clicked on the wrong bid or card.  In allowing such requests, our aim was to maximise the enjoyment for all rather than to allow a genuine mis-click (which happens to everyone from time to time) to benefit one pair at the expense of another.

Unfortunately, time showed that the UNDO facility was frequently being abused by players who falsely claimed to have mis-clicked when wishing to change their mind.  Conversely, players were also often taking advantage of a situation by unreasonably refusing a valid UNDO request.

At the start of July 2021, we imposed a complete ban on the use of UNDOs in the hope of eliminating controversy and unpleasantness at the tables. Although BBO does provide the tools to help players to avoid costly mis-clicks, there has been a marked rise in the number of crazy contracts which adversely affects every player’s result.

So, having listened to you, our loyal customers, the WCBU is pleased to announce that we are reverting to the previous policy position whereby limited use of UNDOs in the bidding will be permitted.

Therefore, commencing on Sunday, 1st August 2021, the use of UNDOs in regular BBO Pairs Tournaments hosted by the WCBU will be restricted as follows:

During the Bidding:

 

  • 1. UNDOs will continue to be permitted where it is obvious that the player has unintentionally clicked on the wrong bid (like a mechanical error with a bidding box);
  • 2. UNDOs will not be permitted, and should not be requested, for any change of mind;
  • 3. Where doubt exists as to whether it is a mis-click or a change of mind, call the TD;
  • 4. If an UNDO request relates to an incorrect conventional response (e.g. wrong answer to Blackwood; a Bergen 3D instead of 3C, the TD will reject the request;
  • 5. The TD’s decision is always final.

During the Play:

 

  • 1. Without exception, UNDOs will not be permitted during the play of the hand;
  • 2. Players are expected to reject all such requests and to call the TD only if necessary.

If you are someone whose mouse often misbehaves, rescue is close at hand! BBO provides two important settings which allow you to guard against mis-clicks – namely “Confirm bids” and “Confirm cards”.  The attached document explains in simple steps how to adjust your settings so your mouse (or finger) need never feel embarrassed again.

WCBU Committee
24 July 2021