Match can be a trial (4)
I believe the answer is:
test
This clue is a double definition.
'match' is the first definition.
(as in a test match in cricket)
'a trial' is the second definition.
(I know that trial can be written as test)
'can be' is the link.
(Other definitions for test that I've seen before include "Sample" , "Trial - international game" , "Cricket match; try" , "Assay" , "Audition" .)