Long stick used in mudflat hiking (5)

I believe the answer is:

lathi

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'long stick' is the definition.
'lathi' can be an answer for 'stick' (I've seen this before). I am unsure of the 'long' bit.

'in mudflat hiking' is the wordplay.
'in' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'LATHI' is hidden in the letters of 'mudflat hiking'.

'used' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lathi that I've seen before include "may give wallop to dacoit" , "Indian police baton" , "Long, heavy stick" , "Indian truncheon" , "Weapon police may use" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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