Pointedly heckled (7)

I believe the answer is:

needled

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'heckled' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for needled that I've seen before include "Annoyed - provoked" , "Irked" , "Provoked or teased with knitting implements? (7)" , "Goaded or provoked" , "Irritated (sl.)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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