How to Play the Middle Pairs in No Limit
The middle pair in No Limit is one of the most misused hands in the game, as a lot of players simply do not know how to play them, either taking them too far into the flop or folding too early. Before you can become an effective all around player, you need to know the basic ways to play this hand.
The first thing that you have to realize is that getting a middle pair on the flop is not yet a made hand. For instance, if you are holding a J6, and the flop gives you a 6-9-K, your No Limit strategy will rest on getting the set by the turn or river, and also if possible, a two pair. The lower the middle pair, the more important it is to get a two pair.
The odds for getting the set are eight to one, but before you make a draw for the turn, your No Limit strategy should consider the following. First, the lower your middle pair, the stronger the likelihood that your opponent has a higher set. T
he other thing that you will have to consider is the board. If there are a lot of flush or straight considerations, then you may have to fold. Even if you get the set or two pair by the river, your No Limit opponents might already have you beat. You will just end up feeding their hand.
For this reasons, your No Limit strategies should always take into account your position. If you are early, your options are limited, but if you are the last to act, then you will be able to make the draw more easily, especially if they call or check. If you are second to last, be careful, as a big raise behind you might affect your hand.
Of course, the way you play the middle pairs will be highly influenced by the players on your table. If they are very loose, then you can play with more marginal No Limit pairs. The opposite of course, is true when you are in a table full of very tight players.
Another thing that you will have to consider will be the pot size of course. Is the pot size worth the bet that you will make, even if you are in early position?
Keep in mind that the middle pair can easily turn into a set, which in a lot of instances can give you the pot in No Limit. Do not throw them away like others do. Observe the pot, the players and by playing it properly you will walk away with the pot.
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