be (batting) on a losing wicket

be (batting) on a losing wicket

To be in a situation in which one is unlikely or unable to win; to be doing something that is likely or certain to fail. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. Teachers who try to keep mobile phones out of their classrooms are on a losing wicket these days. The prime minister, knowing his party has been batting on a losing wicket regarding immigration reform, today announced a major U-turn in his position on the matter.
See also: losing, on, wicket

on a losing wicket

In a situation in which one is unlikely or unable to win; doing something that is likely or certain to fail. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. Teachers who try to keep mobile phones out of their classrooms are on a losing wicket these days. The prime minister, knowing his party has been batting on a losing wicket regarding immigration reform, today announced a major U-turn in his position on the matter.
See also: losing, on, wicket
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • become unstuck
  • burton
  • a piece of piss
  • be done like a (dog's) dinner
  • stop at
  • stop at (something)
  • talk (oneself) out of (something)
  • fall flat
  • take a gamble
  • come a-cropper