Crossword Genius

Caught one departing in chopper (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cleaver

'chopper' is the definition.
('cleaver' can be a synonym of 'chopper')

'caught one departing' is the wordplay.
'caught' becomes 'c' (cricket abbreviation).
'one departing' becomes 'leaver' (I've seen this before).
'c'+'leaver'='CLEAVER'

'in' is the link.

(Other definitions for cleaver that I've seen before include "Butcher's chopper" , "dangerous object?" , "A clever sort of axe" , "Meat axe" , "A butcher's chopping tool" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app