What does the cryptic crossword clue "Possible reason for booking manual worker before party (8)" mean?

The definition is "Possible reason for booking". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). HAND (abbreviation="worker") + BALL (synonym="party") = HANDBALL; definition: "Possible reason for booking" The answer is HANDBALL.

Possible reason for booking manual worker before party (8)

Guardian Cryptic #29211 | 18 Down | 2023-10-26 flower

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