Fans of cryptic crosswords have a new challenge to test their wits with the recent release of puzzle No 30,126. This brain-teaser offers a series of intriguing clues across its grid, requiring solvers to employ both wordplay and lateral thinking to crack each answer.
Across Clues
- 5 Across: The depiction of data science’s status within an academic setting (6 letters).
- 6 Across: An annually published book (6 letters).
- 9 Across: A concealed catalyst, hidden by an uncertain adversary (6 letters).
- 10 Across: Involves returning electoral Republican support to incorporate force (8 letters).
- 11 Across: An evil character from history (4 letters).
- 12 Across: Exemplary yet eccentric behaviour involving the burial of essential small vermin (10 letters).
- 13 Across: Remarkable! Grants and charges are disbursed again (11 letters).
- 18 Across: Concerns communication entity after successful encryption hacking (4,1,5 letters).
- 21 Across: Initially caught abusing both cocaine and heroin (4 letters).
- 22 Across: An innovative concept that integrates a renowned revolutionary element of the Mass (5,3 letters).
- 23 Across: A lounge set, obtained after an online address lapse (6 letters).
- 24 Across: A proclamation retracting a recurring concept, ensuring correctness (6 letters).
- 25 Across: A sign symbolised by a given percussion tool (6 letters).
Down Clues
- 1 Down: Ultimately refits devices surrounding an antiquated battleship (4,4 letters).
- 2 Down: Engages a governmental body through your companion (6 letters).
- 3 Down: Reveals a bottle with a United fan turning a defensive action inside out (8 letters).
- 4 Down: A jubilant exclamation for a rectified error, partially revoked (6 letters).
- 5 Down: Appraises the state’s revealed economic assets over a day (6 letters).
- 7 Down: Not a lot of time remains to open a low-calorie brew (6 letters).
- 8 Down: A dubious climber perched on stones (11 letters).
- 14 Down: Sanctimonious scoundrels shielding servicemen who provoke beasts (8 letters).
- 15 Down: Close to imprisoning a devil, a large British Dickensian hero emerges (8 letters).
- 16 Down: Recognise a finger or toe (6 letters).
- 17 Down: Maintains order for son Henry, amidst serenity (6 letters).
- 19 Down: Crude jokes that lead to fits of laughter (6 letters).
- 20 Down: An ancient nation where a mum captures a hen (6 letters).
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.