on a sticky wicket Definition

wicket
noun

1a. cricket.
A row of three small wooden posts stuck upright in the ground behind either crease;
1b. cricket.
The playing area between these;
1c. cricket.
A batsman's stand at the wicket;
1d. cricket.
A batsman's dismissal by the bowler.
Example: 45 runs for two wickets
2. A small door or gate, especially one that can open separately within a large door or gate.

Form: wicket gate (in full)
Form: wicket door
(US)
3. A small opening or window with a grille, eg at a ticket office or bank.

Idiom: get a wicket (take etc a wicket)

To bowl a batsman out, or have them put out in any way as a result of one's bowling.

Idiom: keep wicket

To be wicketkeeper.

Idiom: on a good wicket (on a sticky wicket)

In a valuable or difficult position.

Etymology: 13c: from French wiket.