MEN Cryptic

[mikecork]

I have indicated many times that I am quite new to the world of the cryptic crossword, still getting use to various ways clues are compiled. sometimes even when I have the answer, it is not always obvious to me how the answer fits to the clue. Case in point:

clue: First two slips on boundary try to upset batsman (6), the answer is sledge.

Now I can see that first tow slips gives the sl, and the on boundary gives edge, but I don't see the connect with the latter part of the clue, i.e. try to upset the batsman, can someone please explain?

[Quizmonkey]

First two letters of slips = SL
Boundary = edge
Look up sledge in the dictionary - it has that cricketing definition

[Captain2]

First two (letters of) SLips 'on' EDGE (boundary)
SLEDGE is having a verbal go at a batsman

[Calibax]

Sledging is a term for when fielders make derogatory or unpleasant comments to the batsman to try and put him off.

[mikecork]

fantastic answers many thanks, having played cricket many years ago at schools county level, I embarrassingly have to admit I have never heard the term used before.

[Calibax]

I think it's a fairly recent invention started by the Australians.

[mikecork]

That makes me feel better, I'm 65 so my school cricketing days are many years ago!! Thanks agin for the help folks. I'll no doubt be back.

[Quizmonkey]

It's a good general tip to look things up in Chambers. Sometimes the simplest words have surprising alternative definitions.