Sam Billings finds his name changed to Willinibillings
Overseas cricketers have always enjoyed their time at the IPL, but one possible source of resentment for them is how frequently their names are confused. Delhi Daredevils’ Sam Billings has reached Mohali for Saturday’s match against Kings XI Punjab, but found a bit of a surprise in his hotel room.
An envelope, possibly left with the intention of welcoming him, was addressed to a certain Mr. Willinibillings.
Arrived in mohali, bit of a name change... Mr Willinibillings pic.twitter.com/6Yr0lu7QdX
— Sam Billings (@sambillings) May 6, 2016
Usman Khawaja was recently dismayed to see that ‘Khwaja’ was supposed to be turning out for Rising Pune Supergiants instead of him, and the name game has continued in Mohali, this time the victim being the unfortunate English wicketkeeper-batsman.
The 24-year-old Billings, who was part of England’s World T20 campaign earlier this year but only featured as a substitute fielder, has been in good form for his IPL side. His 54 against Kolkata Knight Riders last week has ensured that he will feature in the playing XI for the foreseeable future, and he stunned the crowd on Thursday with a stunning catch against Rising Pune.
The catch to dismiss Dhoni was so good that it has been agreed to be the best catch of the tournament so far. However, it was not good enough for somebody to check up Sam Billings’ name.
The travails of the not-as-well-known-as-ABD overseas cricketer in India continue.