North East cricketer banned and Saltburn CC relegated after 'Clicky Ponting' incident

Brian Devine, a Teesside cricketer, has been handed a two-year ban following the viral 'Clicky Ponting' controversy, while Saltburn Cricket Club have been demoted and docked 60 points

A Teesside cricketer at the centre of the viral "Clicky Ponting" scandal has been handed a two-year ban from all cricket under ECB authority.
Brian Devine, of Saltburn's second team, was accused of clicking his fingers as the ball passed a Norton batsman's bat in July, deceiving the umpire into believing there had been an edge. The incident became a viral sensation after video footage surfaced online.
Devine's suspension runs from September 30, 2026, to September 29, 2028, and covers playing, coaching, umpiring, scoring and overseeing junior teams. Further video from earlier Saltburn fixtures appeared to show similar conduct, prompting a lengthy investigation by the North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League.
Saltburn Cricket Club were also sanctioned, receiving a £300 fine, demotion to Division Three and a 60-point deduction ahead of the 2027 season. As a result, Middlesbrough CC's second team will retain their place in Division Two after previously being confirmed as relegated.
Saltburn CC said: "The club fully participated in the disciplinary proceedings and accept the decision of the appeal following the original decision from the League. We are now focussing on preparations for the 2027 season."