They sponge soiled cards for example (7)

I believe the answer is:

cadgers

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

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

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

(Another definition for cadgers that I've seen is " Beggars".)

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

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.