play on

verb7

1. •
   To exploit (a potential weakness or vulnerability) by exacerbating.

   • to play on someone's fears
2. •
   To exploit (a double meaning, similarity in sound, etc.) for humorous or creative effect.

   • This joke plays on the fact that 'thirsty' sounds similar to 'Thursday'.
3. •
   To impinge upon in a recurring or nagging way.
4. •
   To frequently allude to or return to as a theme.

   • The pamphlet plays on the idea that all social conflict is class-based.
5. •
   To let the game continue after a foul has been committed, because the situation is advantageous to the team who would be awarded a foul.
6. •
   to hit the ball into his own wicket, thus being out bowled
7. •
   To cause (an opposing player) to be onside rather than offside due to one's position on the field of play.

   • The ref said that Smith was offside, but I think that Jones played him on.