'Clicky Ponting' controversy: Brian Devine handed two-year ban, Saltburn CC faces major penalty

Brian Devine, the English club cricketer who earned the nickname 'Clicky Ponting' following a cheating controversy, has been handed a two-year ban from all cricket under the jurisdiction of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). His club, Saltburn Cricket Club, has also been fined £300, while its second XI has been relegated and handed a 60-point deduction for the 2027 season.

Devine made headlines in July after footage from a Division Two match in the North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League went viral on social media. The 38-year-old was playing for Saltburn Cricket Club's second XI when he was accused of attempting to deceive the umpire by clicking his fingers at first slip as the ball passed the batter.

The action appeared to make the umpire believe that the batter had edged the delivery, despite no contact being established. Devine subsequently earned the nickname 'Clicky Ponting', a reference to former Australia captain Ricky Ponting.

Following the incident, the North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League launched an investigation into the matter. The probe also considered complaints relating to previous matches and involved player interviews, written statements and a detailed review of video footage.

Both Devine and Saltburn Cricket Club admitted the misconduct charges but appealed against the original sanctions. A separate appeal hearing was held on October 26, following which the disciplinary panel concluded the proceedings.

Brian Devine's two-year ban explained

As part of the disciplinary action, Devine has been suspended from all cricket activities under the ECB's jurisdiction from September 30, 2026, to September 29, 2028.

The suspension extends beyond playing cricket and also prevents him from coaching, umpiring, scoring or managing junior teams at any level during the period.

Saltburn Cricket Club has been fined £300, while its second XI has been relegated to Division Three. The team will also begin the 2027 season with a 60-point deduction.

The decision also means Middlesbrough Cricket Club's second XI will retain its place in Division Two.

Saltburn Cricket club responds to disciplinary action

Following the conclusion of the appeal process, Saltburn Cricket Club acknowledged the decision and said it would now focus on preparations for the upcoming season. "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 focusing on preparations for the 2027 season," the club said in a statement reported by GazetteLive.

The North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League also issued a statement, acknowledging the impact of the controversy on those involved. "The league recognises the strain this has placed on many people, especially those who were abused online and in person," the league said in a statement to Sky Sports.