Cryptic crossword No 561

Quick solve, extremely enjoyable. 15a, 17a, 25a, 2d, 3d (brilliant), lots of favourites.

Thanks for that Leucine, you packed in a ton of interesting tricks and cunning definitions, making for a very satisfying solve, nicely done! Spoilers in reply...

Mornin' Leucine. You are def becoming a bit trickier but the puzzles are none the worse for that. And there are some very nice touches of humour throughout. I'd include amongst my favourites: 9a, 12a, 21a, 25a (lovely chestnut), 3d (brilliant. COTD), 7d, 14d, 16d, 24d (neat and made me smile). Couple of Spoilers in reply. Thanks. PM

Very inventive and witty, Leucine - thanks! I agree with PM that your puzzles are becoming more challenging. I would say this is the toughest I have seen, and it defeated me in a few places. Not at a complaint, though - just an observation. I also agree with PM’s niggles, albeit minor points in a lovely puzzle. Favourites were: 9A, 15A (great spot), 3D (even though I failed to get it), 7D and 17D.

Thanks Leucine, as others have said more challenging but is in the right zone of 'stretch' for me, despite some references outside my GK. I particularly enjoyed 10a, 11a, 15a, 16a (had me going up the garden path for a while), 1d, 7d, 17d & 24d (notwithstanding my lack of sporting knowledge). A few minor niggles (see reply), but again enjoyable and your efforts much appreciated.

Very good fun, thanks Leucine. Some of the NW corner defeated me, but enjoyed seeing what I’d missed in your notes. I really enjoyed the rest and learnt a few new things too! Loved 7d 10a 15a and 19a. Other favourites were 5d 17a 28a 19d and 24d. Thanks

OK so it took me a few visits and I will admit to using a crossword solver widget for a few thorny ones but I finished it! Some absolutely lovely clues in there that raised a smile, a groan or a 'you got me' fist shake 😁. I loved 10a, 17a, 19a, 25a, 28a and 24d. Did not know 4d or 20d so feel educated. Spoilerish comments in Reply. Nice work!