Flush draws are tricky, I committed ICM suicide in my last tournament with one… if I’d ask myself these questions I’d have flat called and been £410 richer as a minimum perhaps even £21K.

You have roughly 35% equity against a made hand but if you play aggressively you can with the fold equity you garner make them a +EV proposition.

Here are some questions you should ask yourself before deciding whether to raise or call on a flush draw. I you answer ‘yes’ to most of these be aggressive, otherwise just call. On an ace high board facing an initial raiser just flat, as you may be getting it all in with just 35% equity as no one folds aces.

  • Is it likely the villain has a weak hand?
  • Can you make the villain believe you have a strong hand?
  • Do you have a lot of fold equity?
  • Could I win the pot with less risk by calling?