Sam Billings eager to test Rahul Dravid's lessons in Champions Trophy
BCCI
Sam Billings, who occasionally opened the innings for Delhi Daredevils this season, has revealed that he is eager to apply Dravid's lesson on the field in the upcoming Champions Trophy. The Englishman added that he was impressed by the calm and composed nature with Dravid conducted himself.
Sam Billings made his debut for England two years ago against New Zealand and hasn't looked back since. He was bagged by Delhi Daredevils in 2016
However, the most cherishing moments for the English wicketkeeper was his time with Rahul Dravid and the 25-year-old claimed that he was blown away by Dravid's composure and his insightful view of the game.
"I just enjoy talking to him, whether it's about life or cricket. He is very calm and offers his insights and has lots of experience," Billings told TOI.
"Obviously, Rahul's just a little bit more in terms of that (experience). So, yes, I think with experience I just look to progress and as long as I can continue with the same attitude and work hard... have a good attitude towards life and cricket, you're going to improve. So, yeah, really looking forward to a home Champions Trophy."
England have been placed in the same group as Australia and New Zealand apart from Bangladesh. Billings has been a part of the English team for 11 ODIs and has scored 246 runs and was recently a part of the English squad that took on Ireland for a 2-match series. The Englishman took on the duty behind the stumps in both the matches but managed to score only seven runs when he got the opportunity with the bat in the 2nd ODI. While Billings has usually opened for his side, against Ireland, the wicketkeeper was sent in at no. 6.
The Englishman has been picked in the Champions Trophy squad for the home side and Billings is excited to play in a major ICC event in his own country. England will start their campaign against Bangladesh at the Kennington Oval on June 1.Â
"We're playing at home and it's always special to perform in front of your own fans," said the 25-year-old.
"I think every competition you play in around the world, every country you play in, and every coach or player you come across, you can get something out of everyone."
When asked if India would struggle in English conditions, Billings replied, "It would be different conditions than what it is here. The ball will have carry and swing. It will be a difficult tournament and all teams are strong."
