Kentish Express Ashford & District
BILLINGS BACK AFTER WHIRLWIND FEW MONTHS HE WILL CHERISH
Sam Billings says he is back from the IPL as a better player and keen to add to Kent’s ‘winning formula’, writes Alex Hoad. Billings – who turns 25 on June 15 – admitted he had enjoyed a whirlwind few months after playing for England Lions and in the Pakistan Super League in Dubai, being part of England’s T20 tour of South Africa and World T20 squad and being drafted by the Delhi Daredevils to play in his first Indian Premier League last month. He returned to Canterbury last week and went straight into the side for Sunday’s clash with Leicestershire, replacing stand-in Adam Rouse who had more dismissals than any other wicketkeeper so far this season. Billings said: “It’s good to be home and great to join back up with the lads. “They’ve had a fantastic start to the year and hopefully I can come back and add to this winning formula.” Billings said the impact of new captain Sam Northeast was already being felt and the club had a more professional feel. He added: “Speaking to many of the guys, it’s been the best start to the year in terms of pre-season and prep that they have been a part of.” Billings said he was keen to showcase his First-Class skills and revealed his ambitions to be considered among the best in the world in Test cricket. He said: “I average about 30 and for me that’s not good enough. I need that to be 40 at least. “I’ve only played two full years of First-Class cricket, though whereas I’ve had four or five of white-ball. “Of course I want to improve all aspects of my game and definitely my Test aspiration is still strong. “People develop at different times. I have just developed my white ball quicker than other formats. “Of his IPL exploits – including a half-century on debut – the first player in four years to do so – Billings added: “It’s only when you sit down at home you think ‘that was a whirlwind few months’. It was a phenomenal experience and one I will cherish for the rest of my life. “Rubbish shoulders with the best players in the world was great to be a part of and there is no doubt my game has improved.”