Thanks for all the answers guys - interesting stuff.

A further thought - does straddling only apply to cash games. I've played a few tourneys - and seen a fair few on TV too - and I've never come across it there, so I'm presuming it doesn't happen/isn't permitted. If that's the case does anyone know why not - because surely the same principles would still apply - i.e. aiming to loosen the game up and promote action.

Thanks Ironside.

I get the point about the straddler holding the option to raise and also the disguise aspect. However, I don't fully understand the shortening the stacks relative to the pot element of your answer - think that's probably too sophisticated a concept for me to appreciate.
Don't forget you've seen me play (or attempt to play, would be a more accurate description) 6 card omaha - so would it be possible for you to simplify that part of your response (if that's possible).

I'm just watching some cash poker on challenge and I've seen these guys placing a straddle bet. Can anyone tell me why they do that? Is it to encourage action or is there some sort of advantage to be gained by doing it?

Hi, great updates!

Any chance on a chipcount for Brian Johnson?

Thanks!!!

Brian only has 7,000 I'm afraid.

He reckons he's been cursed for knocking someone out on the very first hand of the Day, not winning a single hand since.

If you see Brian then tell him to execute a monster triple up like he did at the end of day 1. Let him know that Lindsay (and my Mum) are willing him on.

Hi there,

bocketboy - in real life known as Lindsay O'Hagan.

Looking forward to the game very much - hoping not to make a total arse of myself amongst what will no doubt be some pretty handy players.

If there are still spaces going can you add me onto the list.

Thanks.