Cricketer Brian Devine receives two‑year ban and Saltburn’s second team relegated

The Guardian reported that Brian Devine, 38, has been banned from all cricket for two years after being accused of cheating during the English summer. The ban, imposed by the England and Wales Cricket Board, runs until the end of the 2028 season and covers "playing, coaching, umpiring, scoring and managing junior teams".

Devine, who earned the nickname “Clicky Ponting” after a video from Division Two of the North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League went viral in July, was seen clicking his fingers in the field and persuading an umpire that a Norton CC batter had edged a catch behind. The footage sparked accusations that he had deliberately deceived officials.

In addition to the personal sanction, the Guardian noted that Saltburn Cricket Club’s 2nd XI has been relegated to Division Three of the NYSDCL. The club was also fined £300 after an appeal against the sanction. The 2nd XI will start the 2027 season with a 60‑point deduction, while Middlesbrough CC, which had previously been relegated, retained its place in Division Two.

The ECB’s decision reflects a strict stance on integrity in the sport, aiming to deter similar conduct in the future. The penalties affect both the player’s career and the club’s competitive position in the league.

Why it matters

The sanction demonstrates the governing body’s commitment to uphold fair play, and it reshapes the competitive landscape for Saltburn’s second team.

Key details

Location

United Kingdom · Europe

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

6 Nov 2026, 16:00 IST

Key names

Clicky Ponting’, Brian Devine, XI, Saltburn CC

Section

Sports

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The Guardian‘Clicky Ponting’ cheating scandal cricketer banned and club relegated 6 Nov, 16:00

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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