Cricketer receives two-year ban

An amateur cricketer named Brian Devine has been issued a two-year ban following his involvement in a cheating incident known as the 'Clicky Ponting' scandal. During a North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League (NYSD) Division Two fixture against Norton in July, Devine was recorded while fielding at slip mimicking the sound of a ball hitting a bat by clicking his fingers.

The England and Wales Cricket Board has prohibited Devine from participating in any cricket under its jurisdiction until 29 September 2028. Saltburn's second XI, the team Devine played for, has faced relegation from Division Two and will begin the 2027 season in Division Three, facing a 60-point deduction and a £300 fine.

According to the NYSD, complaints were received regarding the behaviour of both Devine and his club across various matches. While the player and the club acknowledged the charges, Devine accepted the sanction, whereas Saltburn launched an appeal. Although Devine was the sole player to receive a formal penalty, the league expressed its view that other members of the Saltburn squad were also implicated.

"In late July, the League received complaints about the alleged conduct of a Saltburn CC second XI player in NYSD Division Two matches and commenced an investigation with the co-operation of Saltburn CC," the NYSD stated. The league added that the inquiry spanned several weeks and incorporated video analysis, written evidence, and interviews with players.