Returned to strike a blow for equality (3)
I believe the answer is:
par
'for equality' is the definition.
(synonyms)
'returned to strike' is the wordplay.
'returned' shows that the letters should be reversed in order.
'to strike' becomes 'rap' (rapping is a kind of striking).
'rap' reversed gives 'PAR'.
'a blow' acts as a link.
I am not very happy about this link. Some or all of it may be part of another bit of the clue.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for par that I've seen before include "Expected number of strokes for hole (golf)" , "Rating of strokes required for hole (golf)" , "Average or even, as for the course" , "Usual or expected level" , "Normal number of strokes for a hole at golf" .)