Crossword Genius

Playing ninth match — a good wicket for late starter? (13)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nightwatchman

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

'late starter?' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'playing ninth match a good wicket' is the wordplay.
'playing' is an anagram indicator.
'good' becomes 'g' (abbreviation).
'wicket' becomes 'w'.
'ninth'+'match'+'a'+'g'+'w'='ninthmatchagw'
'ninthmatchagw' with letters rearranged gives 'NIGHTWATCHMAN'.

'for' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nightwatchman that I've seen before include "Inferior batsman" , "Guard of premises not in use" , "Someone promoted up the ordinary batting order when a wicket falls close to the end of the day's play" , "one who may take guard close to stumps?" , "Earlier than expected arrival at the batting crease?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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