The wicketkeeper is the central figure in the ongoing 'finger-clicking' scandal that has gripped the sporting world, according to former England captain Jonathan Agnew. Agnew stressed that the accused player, Brian Devine, must have a proper hearing to present his side of the story before any definitive judgments are made.

"People have come to conclusions very quickly and maybe they're right but until there's been a proper investigation, it's difficult to pass judgement," Agnew told BBC Sport. He identified the wicketkeeper, Josh Bowes, as the individual who would ultimately know the details of the incident. "Unless Devine confesses to anything, the wicketkeeper is the star witness for the prosecution and the defence. It's up to him to be honest."

Agnew noted that if the alleged finger-clicking was loud enough for an umpire to hear amid other match noises, then punishment would be warranted. "Anybody who is caught cheating in any sport takes that risk. They take the risk of being exposed as a cheat and they'll be punished as a cheat."

The wider implications for the team also require consideration, Agnew explained, specifically whether other team members were aware of or involved in the alleged misconduct. However, he reiterated that such decisions can only be made after a thorough investigation and a proper process.

Agnew acknowledged that unsporting tactics are not uncommon in cricket. "Let's be frank though, these things do happen in cricket - people are always pushing to try and gain an advantage," he said. He contrasted this with golf, which he believes is largely self-policing. "Whenever you have an umpire or referee to try and con as a player, then this sort of thing goes on."

He recalled an instance from his playing days where a wicketkeeper's loud on-the-spot running was intended to distract a batsman, leading to a stern warning from the batter. Agnew placed such incidents in the same category as ball-tampering scandals, describing them as "foul play and bringing the game into disrepute."

The concept of the "Spirit of Cricket" is complex, Agnew stated, with varying interpretations and a lack of consensus on what constitutes fair play. "It starts with everybody having a different perspective or interpretation of the Spirit of Cricket and very few people agree on that. Then it kicks off from there. It's extraordinarily difficult to get a consensus on these things."

He added that these practices occur globally, citing his experiences playing grade cricket in Australia, which he described as "utterly uncompromising" and "ruthless," with instances of "sharp practice."

Agnew concluded by emphasizing the importance of a complete and fair investigation. "It's not the first incident and it won't be the last. What's important now is that we get a full and fair investigation."