England batsman Sam Billings would not be seen in any T20 franchise action this winter as he has decided to take a break from franchise cricket, including the Indian Premier League (IPL) after being left out of national white-ball squad for South Africa tour.  

Following his poor New Zealand series, Billings was not given nod for the upcoming  tour of South Africa where England will play the hosts in three One Day Internationals and as many as T20Is in February, after the four-match Test series.

Out of favour batsman has decided to not put his name forward for next week's IPL auction after being released by Chennai Super Kings in November. He has also previously played in the Pakistan Super League for Islamabad United, and for Sydney Sixers in Australia's Big Bash.

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Now, Billings wants to use the time to get himself ready for the next season with Kent in order to again push his name in contention for England selection across the formats, hoping his disappointment will provide him an opportunity to “freshen up” and “focus” on big next season.

Taking to Twitter, Billings announced the same while wishing all the luck to the Three Lions for the upcoming South Africa tour starting with first Test on December 26 in Centurion.

He said in a series of tweets: “All the best to the lads heading to South Africa. Huge amount of depth esp in the white ball game atm. Of course disappointed not to be involved but wish the boys all the best. Will be working hard to get back in the mix (in all formats) in the near future!”

Billings added, “On a personal level, I have chosen to pull out of any franchise cricket this winter as well to focus/freshen up for a big year with @KentCricket. Very fortunate to have played all over the last few years & a break from the game to refresh I feel is the best decision.”

Noteworthy, the 28-year-old was England's vice-captain on the New Zealand T20I series recently but failed to impress, scoring only 34 runs across five innings.