Crossword Genius

Two rugby union teams perhaps imbibing swiftly initially -- as this? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

thirsty

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'this?' is the definition.
The answer and definition are not the same part of speech.

'two rugby union teams perhaps imbibing swiftly initially' is the wordplay.
'two rugby union teams perhaps' becomes 'thirty' (fifteen players per team).
'imbibing' indicates putting letters inside.
'initially' suggests taking the first letters.
The first letter of 'swiftly' is 's'.
'thirty' enclosing 's' is 'THIRSTY'.

'as' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for thirsty that I've seen before include "Needing a drink" , "Keen" , "Needing a tipple" , "Hungry" , "Try this if you need drink" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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