Cashing your masters: the right moment

A "master" card is one that's sure to win the trick when you play it. The timing of cashing it makes all the difference.

Cash early to secure

If you fear your suit will be ruffed by an opponent, cash your masters early. A side ace that lingers too long often gets ruffed. On defence especially, take your points before declarer draws trumps.

Wait to place your points better

Conversely, holding a master can pay off: keep it as an entry or to scoop a big trick later, once opponents have dropped points under it. A trump master kept for the last trick is worth a 10-point bonus.

Count before cashing

Check that no trumps remain with the opponents before cashing a side ace.
If the suit is already void at an opponent's, don't hand them a free ruff.
Keep an entry to run your long suit.

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FAQ

Should you cash your master cards right away?

Not always. Cash them early if they risk being ruffed, but sometimes keep one as an entry or for the last trick. The right time depends on the trump count.

Can a master card be ruffed?

Yes, if an opponent is void in the suit, they can ruff your master with a trump. Hence drawing trumps first or cashing early.