Bastard Swords are supposed to be able to be wielded one handed or two handed. It seems in TOEE, they can't be wielded one handed. I can't equip a shield while holding one. It would seem that all they are is a weaker version of a greatsword, all the while requiring an extra feat(exotic) to wield. What's up with this?
Are you certain that your character has the requisite exotic weapon feat? The 3.5 rules, as well TOEE in my experience, allow the sword to be wielded 2-handed as a martial weapon, while using one with a shield requires the exotic feat.
Hmm Hmm, now that I think about it I don't think he had exotic weapon feat. Just Weapon Focus: Bastard Sword. I didn't know it could be wielded at all without it, so I ignorantly assumed he had it already. What a green mistake that was. Thanks for the info, I'll be more observant and thorough next time.