'Clicky Ponting' cheat-row cricketer banned from club cricket for two years

Devine's team, Saltburn CC 2nd XI, has also been relegated from Division Two of the North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League, after footage of his actions went viral during the English summer.

An initial clip, posted by a Norton CC player, showed keeper and slip appeal in unison as the ball passed the bat, with the batter looking bemused as the umpire raised his finger. The Norton player who posted the video added that the incident was "the worst case of cheating" he had ever seen.

Subsequent evidence was unearthed in response to the video - including from Saltburn's match against Shildon Railway CC, in which their wicketkeeper took eight catches, which is more than the Test innings record of seven.

Devine was suspended by his club for the remainder of the season, pending the league's investigation.

After a series of player interviews, written statements, and a review of the footage by a three-person disciplinary panel, both Devine and Saltburn CC accepted misconduct charges.

Devine has now been banned from all cricket under the jurisdiction of the England & Wales Cricket Board until September 29, 2028. The ban covers "playing, coaching, umpiring, scoring and managing junior teams".

Saltburn CC initially appealed against their sanction, but have now been fined £300, and in addition to their relegation, they will also start the 2027 season with 60-point deduction. Middlesbrough CC, who had previously dropped down to Division Three, have retained their place instead.

"The League recognises the strain this has placed on many people, especially those who were abused online and in person," a statement from the NYSDCL read. "We ask everyone to respect that the formal process is now complete."