Ace England batter Sam Billings opts out of IPL 2023


image-lagit1i8Sam Billings with Andre Russell [Source: Twitter]

In what could be a massive setback for Kolkata Knight Riders, experienced keeper-batter Sam Billings has decided not to participate in the IPL 2023. Notably, Billings' willingness to focus more on red-ball cricket has led him to make this decision. 

The England batter took to his Twitter handle to inform the same and thank the franchise for trusting his abilities and giving him the opportunity to be a part of the lucrative league. 

Despite being an extremely talented cricketer, Billings has somehow failed to exhibit his finishing prowess in the IPL. In 27 IPL innings, the cricketer has managed 503 runs at an ordinary average of 19.35 and a strike rate of 129.64. 

However, he had his career-best IPL campaign last season for the Knight Riders, amassing 169 runs at an average of 24.14 and a strike rate of 122.46. Now, as he has opted out of the league, KKR have a vacancy for famed English opener Alex Hales in their playing XI. With the mini-auction being around the corner, it will be interesting to see which combination they prefer in the mega event. 


Also Read: Gerald Coetzee earns maiden call-up as South Africa announce squad for Australia Tests