Stick, but don't close innings! (5)
I believe the answer is:
baton
'stick' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
'don't close innings' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'close' could be 'on' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'on' is found within the answer.
The remaining letters 'bat' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This may be the basis of clue (or it may be nonsense).
'but' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for baton that I've seen before include "Short rod (that can be passed!)" , "Prohibition" , "It's used by a conductor and a policeman" , "Relay race stick" , "Controller of players" .)