The North Yorkshire and South Durham Cricket League has launched an investigation into critical allegations of dishonest after a Saltburn participant was accused of simulating a caught-behind dismissal by clicking his fingers.
A video which has gone viral on social media seems to indicate the fielder making the sound along with his fingers because the ball handed Norton batter Noman Shabir’s bat, moments earlier than wicketkeeper Josh Bowes accomplished the catch behind the stumps.
Shabir was left visibly distraught by the umpire’s choice after being given out as he tried to level out that the sound made because the ball handed the bat got here from a close-by fielder, however his protests fell on deaf ears.
Footage of the incident has since garnered important worldwide consideration, with the unique social media publish tagging a number of high-profile sports activities retailers together with BBC Check Match Particular, Sky Sports activities Cricket and the Tailenders podcast, which is co-hosted by England bowling nice James Anderson alongside Greg James and Felix White.
The publish learn: “First slip clicks his fingers to mimic an edge, bat nowhere close to it and given out. That is in regards to the worst case of dishonest I’ve ever seen in cricket. Apparently, their keeper has an enormous quantity of catches this season.”
The incident occurred throughout a match the place Division Two leaders Saltburn secured a 159-run victory, putting them 17 factors clear on the high of the desk.
Responding to the controversy, the NYSD League issued an announcement on X, confirming: “The league have acquired a proper criticism relating to alleged incidents in a Division Two sport on Saturday. A full investigation has been initiated and till such time because the formal processes are full no additional remark will likely be made.”
Additional claims have emerged, with Middlesbrough’s second XI captain, Rory Cotterill, alleging two extra cases of dishonest throughout his aspect’s 29-run defeat to Saltburn final month.
The scandal has been dubbed ‘Clicky Ponting’ on-line, with Piers Morgan posting on X: “Clicky Ponting (as he’s now recognized) and varied teammates at Saltburn CC, have clearly been at this shameful rip-off for years. Think about doing this in native beginner cricket? Pathetic.”
The viral footage has sparked widespread condemnation globally, with the incident making headlines throughout Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA.
The Press Affiliation has sought remark from the NYSD League and Saltburn, whereas Norton has declined to talk on the matter.
