A 23-year-old cricketer at the centre of the 'clicky ponting' scandal has been named, but Saltburn Cricket Club has so far declined to comment on the allegations.
The player in question was involved in a game where a video has gone viral on social media, appearing to show the fielder simulating a caught-behind dismissal by clicking his fingers as the ball passed the bat. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation globally, with the original social media post tagging several high-profile sports outlets including BBC Test Match Special, Sky Sports Cricket, and the Tailenders podcast.
The post, shared by Ben Mummery, read: “First slip clicks his fingers to imitate an edge, bat nowhere near it and given out. This is about the worst case of cheating I’ve ever seen in cricket. Apparently, their keeper has a huge amount of catches this season.”
The incident occurred during a match where Division Two leaders Saltburn secured a 159-run victory, placing them 17 points clear at the top of the table. The NYSD League has since launched an investigation into the allegations, confirming that a full inquiry has been initiated.
Further claims have emerged, with Middlesbrough’s second XI captain, Rory Cotterill, alleging two additional instances of cheating during his side’s 29-run defeat to Saltburn last month. The scandal has been dubbed ‘Clicky Ponting’ online, with Piers Morgan posting on X: “Clicky Ponting (as he is now known) and various teammates at Saltburn CC, have clearly been at this shameful scam for years. Imagine doing this in local amateur cricket? Pathetic.”
The viral footage has sparked outrage across the globe, with the incident making headlines in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA. The Press Association has sought comment from the NYSD League and Saltburn, while Norton has declined to speak on the matter.
As the investigation continues, the cricketing community is left reeling from the allegations. The incident raises questions about the integrity of local amateur cricket and the need for stricter regulations to prevent such cheating.
The NYSD League has issued a statement on X, confirming that the league has received a formal complaint regarding alleged incidents in a Division Two game on Saturday. A full investigation has been initiated, and until such time as the formal processes are complete, no further comment will be made.
The outcome of the investigation will be closely watched by the cricketing world, with many calling for harsher penalties for those found guilty of cheating.
Source: Yahoo Sports