Crossword Genius

Cricketers take them out to lunch (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

bats

I believe this clue is a double definition.

'cricketers take them' is the first definition.
(equipment used by cricketers)

'out to lunch' is the second definition.
(both can mean mad)

(Other definitions for bats that I've seen before include "Loopy; mammals" , "Crazy; night-fliers" , "Lunatic" , "Hutton and Gilligan" , "Cricketers" .)

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