The idiom "sticky wicket" is a cricketing term that has been adopted in everyday English language. It means a difficult or tricky situation that is hard to get out of.
In cricket, a "wicket" is the set of three stumps and two bails that the batsman defends while the bowler tries to hit them with the ball. If the bowler hits the wicket, the batsman is out. A "sticky wicket" is a pitch that is wet and muddy, making it difficult for the batsman to defend the wicket and for the bowler to hit it.
In everyday English, "sticky wicket" is used to describe a difficult or tricky situation that is hard to get out of. For example, if someone is facing a difficult problem at work or in their personal life, they might say "I'm in a bit of a sticky wicket right now."
Overall, "sticky wicket" is a fun and colorful way to describe a challenging situation that requires careful handling and skill to overcome.
• The politician found himself in a sticky wicket when his controversial statement went viral.
• Handling the legal dispute between the two companies was a sticky wicket, but the experienced lawyers were able to resolve it.
• The new project is proving to be a sticky wicket because of the tight deadline.
• Negotiating with the difficult client was a sticky wicket for the sales team.
• The company's financial situation was a sticky wicket, but they managed to come out of it with strategic planning.
• I don't understand cricket, it's a sticky wicket for me.