not get/have a look-in

not get a look in

To not have the opportunity to do something or to reveal one's skill in some area. Primarily heard in UK. I had really wanted to meet my favorite singer while he was at the convention, but there were so many people around him that I couldn't get a look in. Jim always takes control of a project, and the rest of us end up not getting a look in.
See also: get, look, not
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

not get/have a ˈlook-in

(British English, informal) not get the chance to do something you want because of other people who are better or more determined than you: There are too many good players, so I never get a look-in when they’re choosing the team.
See also: get, have, not
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • cut (one) down in (one's) prime
  • cut (one) off in (one's) prime
  • cut someone off in their prime
  • prime
  • there are horses for courses
  • horses for courses
  • be half the (something) (one) used to be
  • make (one's) own luck
  • make your own luck
  • be (one's) man/woman