sticky wicket

The phrase "sticky wicket" typically refers to a difficult or tricky situation in which someone finds themselves in. It is often used to describe a challenging problem or predicament that is not easy to resolve. The term originates from the sport of cricket, where a "wicket" is the area where the batsman stands and the term "sticky" refers to a pitch that is wet or damp, making it difficult for the batsman to play comfortably. Therefore, a "sticky wicket" figuratively represents a difficult or tricky circumstance.