Crossword Genius

Players holding an ace in this? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

canasta

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'this?' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'players holding an ace' is the wordplay.
'players' becomes 'cast' (group of actors).
'holding' indicates putting letters inside.
'ace' becomes 'a'.
'cast' enclosing 'an' is 'canast'.
'canast'+'a'='CANASTA'

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for canasta that I've seen before include "Can a staff cook stomach game?" , "Two-pack card game" , "series of hands" , "Rummy-like card-game" , "Card game like rummy" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app