England star Sam Billings has snubbed next year’s IPL in order to focus on country cricket with Kent in a bid to force his way into his country's Test plans. The 31-year-old was expected to be part of the Kolkata Knight Riders squad but took to Twitter to confirm he will not feature in India's premier franchise tournament in 2023.
"Have taken the tough decision that I won't be taking part in the next IPL," Billings said in a tweet on Monday morning. "Looking to focus on longer format cricket at the start of the English summer with @kentcricket." The wicketkeeper-batsman was picked up by the 2012 and 2014 IPL champions for Rs 2 crore (US$ 266,000 approx. then) prior to the 2022 season.
He played eight matches and scored 169 runs in his eight innings at a strike rate of 122.46 and average of 24.14. IPL teams have until Tuesday to announce their list of retentions. The auction ahead of the 2023 season is scheduled for December 23 in Kochi. Billings is still due to take part in the Big Bash League this winter in Australia, having been drafted as an overseas player for Brisbane Heat.
