An amateur cricketer dubbed "Clicky Ponting" has been banned for two years and his team punished heavily after a cheating scandal that made global headlines.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Brian Devine was caught apparently clicking his fingers while fielding during a match for Saltburn Cricket Club's second XI, to trick the umpire into thinking the batsman had edged the ball.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He was given the nickname "Clicky Ponting" in reference to the former Australia captain, Ricky.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The North Yorkshire and South Durham league launched an investigation after the incident came to light in July, attracting millions of views online.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
There were further complaints regarding previous matches and the probe included player interviews, written statements and a detailed review of video footage.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Devine has now been suspended from playing, coaching, umpiring, scoring and managing junior teams at all levels until September 29, 2028.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Saltburn's second XI have been relegated, handed a 60-point deduction for the 2027 season and fined £300 ($400).<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Devine and Saltburn admitted the charges but the club appealed against their sanction.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Saltburn said in a statement reported on gazettelive.co.uk: "The club fully participated in the disciplinary proceedings and accept the decision of the appeal following the original decision from the league."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In a statement to the Press Association, the league said: "The league recognises the strain this has placed on many people, especially those who were abused online and in person.<\/p>\r\n\r\n