Crossword Genius

Regret loyal friend announced instructions to candidates (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rubric

'instructions to candidates' is the definition.

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for rubric that I've seen before include "Written instructions" , "Directions for the conduct of Christian services" , "Directions for conducting Christian services" , "Document heading" , "Instructions at the head of a document" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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