Billings off to India Kent cricket

Kent captain Sam Billings has been named in both the England Lions 50-over and Test squads for their tour to India this winter. The trip will see the Lions play five 50-over matches and two A Tests during January and February 2019. The tour follows the recent series in the UAE, against Pakistan A, in which the hosts narrowly won the four-day and 50-over series and the Lions claimed the T20 leg. Wicketkeeper-batsman Billings, 27, has played 15 ODIS for the senior England squad and 18 T20 internationals. His last 50-over appearance for the national side was in the 38-run win over Australia at Cardiff in June when he scored 11. n Kent have appointed ex-zimbabwean international Mark Dekker as lead coach for the county’s women’s team. Dekker, a former left-handed batsman, will start his new role when the Kent Women’s squad start their winter training schedule in January. He will be assisted by outgoing Kent Women’s player-coach, Lydia Greenway, who will provide support in an advisory role. Dekker, a 49-year-old, who played 14 Tests and 23 ODIS for Zimbabwe, said: “I feel privileged to be involved with the Kent Women’s squad from next season. “Kent Women have a fantastic history of success, and also in producing players that go on to represent England. I’m looking forward to the coming season.” Kent Cricket’s Director of Cricket, Paul Downton, said: “I am delighted Mark has taken on the role. “His enthusiasm, innovation and his significant amount of cricketing experience will be invaluable to the team as we await news of any ECB restructuring of the women’s county game for 2020 and beyond.”