Brian Devine, an amateur cricketer who came under scrutiny after being accused of simulating the sound of bat on ball by clicking his fingers during caught-behind appeals, is facing a two-year ban. Known as “Clicky Ponting” by some, Devine was banned following viral footage of his actions during the English summer.
His team, Saltburn CC 2nd XI, has been relegated from Division Two of the North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League. The incident first caught attention when a player from Norton CC posted a video showing a united appeal from the keeper and slip as the ball went by the bat, leaving the batter confused when the umpire gave him out. The video poster described it as “the worst case of cheating” he had encountered.
Further examination revealed similar occurrences, notably during Saltburn’s match against Shildon Railway CC, where their wicketkeeper notably took eight catches in one match – exceeding the Test innings record of seven catches.
Devine was initially suspended for the rest of the season by his club while the league investigated. Following reviews including player interviews and video analysis by a disciplinary panel, both Devine and Saltburn CC admitted to misconduct.
Devine’s ban prevents him from engaging in any cricket activities under the England & Wales Cricket Board’s jurisdiction until September 2028. This includes playing, coaching, umpiring, scoring, and managing junior teams.
Saltburn CC’s appeal against their punishment was unsuccessful. The club has been fined £300 and will begin the 2027 season with a 60-point deduction, as well as being relegated. This decision allowed Middlesbrough CC, initially demoted to Division Three, to maintain their Division Two position.
In a statement, the North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League acknowledged the heavy toll the situation had taken, particularly on those who faced online and in-person abuse, and emphasised, “We ask everyone to respect that the formal process is now complete.”
