Cricket Cheating Alleged: Clicky Ponting Case Rattles North Yorkshire Leagues

Social media footage shows Saltburn player allegedly cheating in bid to fool umpires. A full investigation now underway.

KSports

July 30, 2026 at 04:17 AM

Photo: The Guardian - Sport

Cheating Alleged: Clicky Ponting Case Rattles North Yorkshire Leagues

Controversy erupted in the world of English cricket after a viral video allegedly showed Saltburn 2nd XI player ‘Clicky Ponting’ attempting to deceive umpires by clicking his fingers. The incident, reminiscent of the notorious Sandpapergate scandal from Australian cricket, has drawn scrutiny and calls for stringent action.

The footage, posted on social media, shows a Saltburn fielder apparently flicking his wrist just before a batsman plays a shot, potentially fooling the umpire into thinking an edge hit the bat. The catch is then cleanly taken by the wicketkeeper to cheers from teammates while the bewildered batter protests to the umpire.

Ben Mummery, who filmed and shared the video, expressed his dismay at what he calls ‘the worst cheating I’ve ever seen in cricket.’ He hopes the incident will lead to harsh punishment:

#OTHERS