Opening strike recalled by colleague (7)
I believe the answer is:
partner
'colleague' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for partner that I've seen before include "Business associate; one of a couple" , "One sharing home or business" , "Associate, in business or private life" , "sometimes joining in crime" , "Husband or wife" .)