Posted 2018-June-04, 07:47
In answer to the two original questions:
1. Clearly a poll is desirable. If it is truly impractical, I would judge that the BIT suggests bidding on over passing, and would assign a score for 3NT by North, weighted for making 3 or 4 based on the lead. As noted above, I would actually assign 100% of 3NT making 4 unless it were possible to poll the opening lead, or EW could clearly demonstrate that the double of 3♣ has no lead-directing significance.
2. If this comes to an appeal, a poll becomes even more important. In the absence of a poll, EW probably escape without whatever sanction is available for Appeal without Merit. If there is a poll, and it fails to show a substantial preponderance of 4♣ bidders, then AWM is appropriate.