Kent Spitfires’ Vitality T20 Blast skipper Sam Billings on Sam Northeast’s county comeback Sam Billings, captain of the Kent Spitfires in the Vitality T20 Blast, has expressed his support for Sam Northeast’s return to the county team. The 36-year-old batsman, who was born in Ashford, has signed a two-year deal with Kent after previously leaving for Hampshire in 2018. Billings, who replaced Northeast as captain, believes the timing of his return is ideal. Northeast, who was once a key figure in Kent’s academy system, will now play alongside Billings again. The pair have shared a long history, with Billings recalling living with Northeast during his time as captain. “He’s a great guy,” Billings said. “I played a lot of cricket with him growing up. He was definitely the ‘star boy’ and it’s no surprise he’s turned out to be such a quality player. It’s fantastic to have him back.” Billings emphasized that Northeast’s return is beneficial for both the team and his own mindset. “It was healthy for everyone, and his own mentality, the timing of when he left,” he said. “He went on to play brilliantly wherever he went, but now is the time for him to come home. He’s exactly the type of player and personality we need around the group. He sets incredibly high standards and demands them from others, which is exactly what we need in the dressing room.” Billings also hinted that Northeast may need to earn his place in the Spitfires’ squad this summer. “A good definition of leadership is how you elevate others into positions of leadership,” he said. “He played brilliantly for us in the T20 Blast, but he probably won’t start. However, there’s definitely a lot of experience and potential he could bring.#the_hundred #sam_billings #kent_spitfires #vitality_t20_blast #sam_northeast
