Noteworthy protectors (4)

I believe the answer is:

pads

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'noteworthy protectors' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.

This is the entire clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pads that I've seen before include "Cricket leg-guards" , "Fleshes out" , "Quarters" , "Protective guards worn by sportspeople" , "tablets" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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