Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi, Nov 14: Sam Billings, an England wicketkeeper-batsman, said on Monday that he would forego playing in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) in order to concentrate on longer-format cricket with county Kent at the start of the English season.
He was acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the super auction earlier this year, and he went on to play eight matches for the team, recording eight scores totaling 169 runs at an average of 24.14 with a best score of 36.
“Have taken the tough decision that I won’t be taking part in the next IPL @KKRiders. Looking to focus on longer format cricket at the start of the English summer with @kentcricket,” Billings wrote on twitter.
“Thank you so much for the opportunity @kkriders! Loved every minute of it. An amazing franchise with some brilliant people. Hopefully see you again in the future,” he added.
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Billings has played 30 games in the IPL and has amassed 503 runs at an average of 19.35, with a best score of 56. The right-handed hitter has played for the Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Daredevils in the IPL. Under the guidance of Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum, Billings has recently begun to receive opportunities in England’s Test lineup.
He is frequently chosen to serve as Ben Foakes’ backup wicketkeeper. The World Test Championship’s next Test assignment for England is against Pakistan, where they will tour the nation for three Test matches.
