English cricketer suspended over finger-snapping ruse

An amateur cricketer in England has been suspended by his club and is under formal investigation by his local league after videos went viral appearing to show him clicking his fingers to simulate the sound of a bat hitting the ball, deceiving umpires into giving opposing batters out. The player, Brian Devine of Saltburn Cricket Club, has been dubbed "Clicky Ponting" online, a nickname referencing former Australian captain Ricky Ponting.

The North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League confirmed on July 28 that it had launched a full investigation following a formal complaint regarding alleged incidents in a Division Two match between Saltburn and Norton on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Multiple video clips circulating on social media appear to show Devine, fielding at slip, snapping his fingers as the ball passes an opponent's bat before appealing for a catch. The league stated it would make no further comment until its formal processes are complete.

In response, Saltburn Cricket Club issued a statement saying it was treating the allegation with the utmost seriousness and was fully cooperating with the league's investigation. The club stated it had acted decisively, suspending the...