Cricket dishonest scandal’s ‘Clicky Ponting’ may internet fortune from TV, golf equipment and panto

PR guru says Brian Devine may have sparked global outrage but he has a big future in the entertainment world because he reckons ‘everyone loves a villain’

The cricketer at the centre of Cricket’s cheating scandal could net a fortune from TV deals, nightclub appearances and even a star turn as a pantomime villain, according to a PR guru.

Brian Devine, 38, dubbed ‘Clicky Ponting’, sparked global outrage over claims he got opponents caught out by clicking his fingers to fake the sound of the ball brushing the bat on the way to the wicketkeeper’s gloves.

He has been suspended and his team Saltburn Cricket Club 2nd XI is under investigation over claims it used the trick to cheat its way to the top of the league.

TV host Piers Morgan said Devine – who has been dubbed ‘Clicky Ponting’ in a play on the name of legendary Australian batsman Ricky – ‘must be the biggest cheat in cricket history’.

But despite finding himself on a sticky wicket Devine could cash in on his new-found notoriety – and already has his first TV offer.

PR guru Barry Tomes, who represented disgraced BBC presenter Huw Edwards, said the finger flicker could rake in thousands thanks to his viral fame.

“Everyone loves a villain and right now Clicky Ponting is hot property,” Barry said.

“Yes, people are angry about what he’s alleged to have done. But there’s cheating in every sport.

“He hasn’t murdered anyone. I think the outrage will die down and people will start seeing the funny side of it.

“The moment I saw the videos online I knew this guy could make money. That’s why we’ve approached him about representation.”

Barry, who also helped reality TV Benefits Street star ‘White Dee’ become a millionaire, reckons pubs, clubs and sports bars could be queuing up to book Devine.

“I’ve already been approached by a TV company saying they want him on their show,” he said.

“Nightclubs and bars will often pay people who are making headlines £250 to £300 just to turn up.

“You can imagine punters lining up to have their picture taken while clicking their fingers with Clicky.

“Influencers would love it. He could even feature on a dance remix clicking his fingers, the possibilities are endless but the opportunity is there.

“He could even be in demand to play a pantomime villain come Christmas time. Look at the so-called baddies like Nasty Nick who made a fortune on the back of his antics on Big Brother.”

Barry said Devine could turn the controversy into a positive.

“We’d look at portraying him as someone who’s learned his lesson. Everyone loves a story about redemption,” he said.

“He could visit schools and talk to kids about why cheating isn’t worth it.

“He could even help train umpires by showing them the tricks players use to gain an unfair advantage like reformed criminals when they turn their lives around and help police.

“The message would be that Clicky has gone from bending the rules to helping clean up cricket.”

Devine, company secretary of a North Yorkshire livestock auction house, has not commented or admitted any wrong-doing.

But Barry is convinced the attention could pay dividends.

“The one thing I tell all my clients is that haters make you money,” he said.

“Brian’s in the headlines whether he likes it or not.

“He might as well ride the wave and make a few quid from it.”