Chess players seek these partners (5)

I believe the answer is:

mates

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'these partners' is the definition.
('mate' can be a synonym of 'partner')

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for mates that I've seen before include "Friends among the ship's officers" , "Naval officers'" , "Pals or spouses" , "Chums" , "conclusive moves on board" .)

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