Crossword Genius

Pubs screening game Italy wrecked (2,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

in ruins

'wrecked' is the definition.
(in ruins can mean wrecked or destroyed)

'pubs screening game italy' is the wordplay.
'pubs' becomes 'inns' (an inn is a type of pub).
'screening' is an insertion indicator (inserted letters are covered or screened by others).
'game' becomes 'RU' (rugby union).
'italy' becomes 'i'.
'ru'+'i'='rui'
'inns' enclosing 'rui' is 'IN RUINS'.

(Other definitions for in ruins that I've seen before include "Broken-down" , "Wrecked" , "falling apart" , "Effectively destroyed" , "Ramshackle" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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