Two-year ban for ‘Clicky Ponting’ cricketer

Amateur cricketer Brian Devine has been banned from cricket for two years after clicking his fingers to imitate the sound of a ball edging a bat. The incident, filmed during a match between Saltburn’s second XI and Norton, became known as the “Clicky Ponting” scandal and attracted international attention.

Devine’s ban runs until 29 September 2028 and covers playing, coaching, umpiring, scoring and managing junior teams. Saltburn’s second XI admitted charges and will be relegated to Division Three for the 2027 season with a 60-point deduction; the club was also fined £300. The league said its investigation included interviews, written statements and video review, and noted that online and in-person abuse had affected people involved.