Crossword Genius

Girl in game, losing heart (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ruby

'girl' is the definition.
(girl's name)

'game losing heart' is the wordplay.
'game' becomes 'rugby' (rugby is a kind of game).
'losing heart' suggests removing the centre.
'rugby' with its middle taken out is 'RUBY'.

'in' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for ruby that I've seen before include "Girl's name - colour" , "Deep red - transparent gemstone" , "Stony girl" , "Jack perhaps" , "Vivid red" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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