Amateur cricketer banned for two years over viral cheating scandal

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 5 Nov, 23:50 · Archive

Brian Devine, an amateur cricketer dubbed 'Clicky Ponting' after cheating went viral, has been banned from all forms of cricket for two years.

Brian Devine, an amateur cricketer for Saltburn CC's 2nd team in north-east England, was caught deceiving umpires by clicking his fingers as the ball passed the bat to simulate an edge and claim wickets. The 38-year-old's behaviour went viral on social media in July, earning him the nickname 'Clicky Ponting', a play on former Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting.

Following an England and Wales Cricket Board investigation, which included player interviews, written statements and detailed review of video footage, Devine has been banned from all forms of cricket involvement until 29 September 2028. This covers playing, coaching, umpiring, scoring and managing junior teams.

Saltburn CC's 2nd team has also been punished. The club was relegated to the third division and will begin the 2027 season with a 60-point deduction, plus a £300 fine. Saltburn suspended Devine immediately after the scandal emerged in July. The club stated: 'The club fully participated in the disciplinary proceedings and accept the decision of the appeal. We are now focussing on preparations for the 2027 season.' The North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League emailed all clubs in their system to acknowledge the strain the scandal had caused.

How it is being reported

• 'Clicky Ponting' cricket cheat slapped with a two-year ban after scandal that went viral - as his village team are booted out of their league and handed huge points deductionThe cheating club cricketer dubbed 'Clicky Ponting' has been given a two-year ban from the sport following an ECB investigation.Daily Mail Sport · 5 Nov, 23:30
• 'Clicky Ponting' banned as his cricket club suffer harsh punishment for cheating scandalBrian Devine, who became known as "Clicky Ponting" after his cheating in amateur cricket matches went viral, has received a punishment alongside his club Saltburn CCThe Mirror · 5 Nov, 21:44

In this story: Brian Devine · Saltburn Cricket Club · England and Wales Cricket Board · North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League · North Yorkshire

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log