Brian Devine banned for two years as Saltburn relegated over finger-clicking scandal

Amateur cricketer Brian Devine has been banned for two years following the finger-clicking deception that became known as the Clicky Ponting scandal. BBC Sport reported that the Saltburn second XI player is barred from cricket governed by the England and Wales Cricket Board until 29 September 2028. His team has also been relegated after a disciplinary investigation by the North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League.

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Devine was filmed while fielding at slip against Norton in a Division Two match in July. In the footage described by the BBC, he appears to click his fingers as the ball passes Noman Shabir's bat, imitating the sound of an edge. Wicketkeeper Josh Bowes catches the ball, Saltburn appeal and the umpire gives Shabir out. The footage subsequently circulated widely on social media and drew international attention.

The league said complaints received in late July concerned Devine and Saltburn's conduct in more than one match. Its investigation lasted several weeks and involved interviews with players, written accounts and close examination of video recordings. Saltburn co-operated with the inquiry. Both Devine and the club admitted the charges, according to the BBC report, although they took different positions on the resulting penalties.

Devine accepted his sanction, while Saltburn appealed against the club's punishment. His suspension extends beyond playing: he cannot coach, umpire, keep score or manage junior sides during the ban. He was the only player individually sanctioned, but the league said it believed other Saltburn team members had been involved. No further individual penalties were reported in the article.

Saltburn's second XI will begin the 2027 campaign in Division Three with 60 points deducted, and the club has been fined £300. Their enforced relegation gives Middlesbrough's second XI a reprieve after an 11th-place finish in the 12-team Division Two. Saltburn's first XI had separately already been relegated from the league's Premier League, also after finishing 11th.

The league said the formal proceedings were complete and acknowledged the pressure on those affected, including people subjected to abuse online and in person. BBC Sport said it had approached both Saltburn and Devine for comment. Its report did not include a response from either.