Director of cricket Simon Cook believes it’s great Kent Spitfires’ T20 Blast skipper Sam Billings is being linked with an England captaincy role – but won’t give it much further thought until a decision is made.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Billings has not played for England since 2022, but has emerged as a surprise contender to become England’s next white-ball captain as Jos Buttler stepped down after their exit from the Champions Trophy last month.
An experienced white-ball skipper, 33-year-old Billings has led Oval Invincibles to win The Hundred competition in each of the past two seasons and captained Kent to 2021 Blast glory, as well as enjoying success in various Franchise competitions.
Billings said he would “jump at an opportunity” to take on the position this week.
Cook said: “Sam has had another good winter away – both as a player and with the teams that he’s played in.
“He’s a proven white-ball player. He’s at a good age, has got a good tactical brain for cricket and he would be a very good leader, given the opportunity.
“It’s good that our players are still being recognised.”
Billings has played three Tests, 28 One-Day Internationals and 37 T20s for England, but none since November 2022.
If given the nod, Pembury-born Billings, who became Kent’s second-ever white-ball contracted player in December 2023, could potentially see his county commitments limited even further.
But Cook said: “Until anything happens, it doesn’t make it difficult at all. Once something happens, then you have to react to it.
“But we won’t be giving it any real further thought until something actually happens.”
Billings is expected to remain part of the Kent set-up in Canterbury during their pre-season preparations despite their 2025 Blast season – and his involvement with the side – not starting until late May.
“It’s so key he is involved in the weeks leading into the season, even though they are predominantly red-ball-based,” noted Cook. “It’s the same with Fred Klaassen, as well.
“He will return from his Dutch duties tomorrow and he’ll be around for the red-ball build-up, even though – predominantly after his injuries – he’ll only be playing white-ball cricket for us.
“Everyone linked in is kind of part of the Kent family. What we want to do is ensure that everyone is moving forwards.
“We try to encourage people to be leaders. Whether they’re a leader in title or not, everyone tries to lead.
“Quinny (Matt Quinn) is trying to lead the bowling group, Grant Stewart led the bowling group really well in the One-Day Cup last year, but it’s not just on the field. It’s actually in the dressing room, making sure we hold each other accountable for our standards.
“We openly encourage people to be leaders and take responsibility.”
