Crossword Genius

Type of haircut for one of those getting knocked about in court

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tennis ball

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'type' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see an association between them that I can't see?

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for tennis ball that I've seen before include "Bouncer" , "Item hit with rackets" , "Something hit by racquets" , "Item for Wimbledon game" , "Wimbledon equipment" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times.
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