batting on a sticky wicket



batting on a sticky wicket

In the midst of or dealing with a particularly awkward or difficult situation or circumstance. Refers to the pitch, called a "wicket," used in the game of cricket and the difficulty of playing on one after it has been wetted with rain. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. I found myself batting on a sticky wicket when the boss saw me kissing his daughter at the cinema. I'll be batting on a sticky wicket if I arrive at the train station and don't have enough money for the tickets!
See also: batting, on, sticky, wicket

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
MidgeMIJEnglish (Rare)
Gale (2)GAYLEnglish
Thijmen-Dutch
Moe (2)mo-eJapanese
JarosŁAwayah-raw-SWAH-vahPolish
VirgilVUR-jəl (English)English, Romanian