Crossword Genius

Fans removing clothing in part of game (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

over

'part of game' is the definition.
(cricket - a group of six deliveries)

'fans removing clothing' is the wordplay.
'fans' becomes 'lovers' ('lover' can be a synonym of 'fan').
'removing clothing' means to look at the middle letters (the letters which clothe the word are removed).
The central letters of 'lovers' are 'OVER'.

'in' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for over that I've seen before include "superior position" , "Past, surplus" , "Having gone < to America" , "Six consecutive bowls in cricket" , "Unit of test" .)

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