Crossword Genius

Report of medium-sized cat in playing area (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

links

'playing area' is the definition.
(golf links)

'report of medium-sized cat' is the wordplay.
'report of' indicates a 'sounds like' (homophone) clue.
'medium-sized cat' becomes 'lynx' (type of wild cat).
'lynx' sounds like 'LINKS'.

'in' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for links that I've seen before include "Golf-course" , "Where golfers play" , "Ties; golf course" , "Shore-side golf course - connects" , "Golf course on sandy ground near a shore" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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