Crossword Genius

Second step upset batsman? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sledge

'upset batsman?' is the definition.
(to sledge is to distract a cricket player)

'second step' is the wordplay.
'second' becomes 's' (common abbreviation).
'step' becomes 'ledge' (I have seen 'A step' mean 'ledge' so perhaps 'step' could also mean 'ledge').
's'+'ledge'='SLEDGE'

(Other definitions for sledge that I've seen before include "Vehicle mounted on runners" , "Put cricketer off" , "In the field, abuse" , "Vehicle for use in snow" , "Make offensive remarks" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.