Bowler in match between close rivals (5)
I believe the answer is:
derby
This clue is a double definition.
'bowler' is the first definition.
(derby can mean a bowler hat)
'match between close rivals' is the second definition.
(sporting match between rival teams)
'in' acts as a link.
(Other definitions for derby that I've seen before include "Gracefully thin" , "Classic horse-race" , "Commotion" , "Type of hat" , "Team" .)