The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word CHUKKA
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The straight part
We know that "a period in sport" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case a period in sport = chukka.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CHUKKA mean?
CHUKKA noun- Chukka boot
- One of the six playing periods, each 7½ minutes long, of a game of polo.