Contests without deception? (5)

I believe the answer is:

tests

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'contests without deception?' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'contests without deception?' is the wordplay.
'without' is a deletion indicator.
'deception?' becomes 'con' (a con is a trick or deception).
'contests' with 'con' taken away is 'TESTS'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tests that I've seen before include "International cricket matches" , "Trials to see if something works" , "Trials, exams" , "Tries out" , "Puts to proof at cricket matches" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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