Sam Billings set to be sidelined for up to five months following dislocated shoulder

The Kent captain sustained the injury in the Royal London One-Day Cup clash against Glamorgan at Sophia Gardens on Thursday

Sam Billings has been ruled out of action for between three and five months after dislocating his shoulder while playing for Kent.

The Kent captain sustained the injury in the Royal London One-Day Cup clash against Glamorgan at Sophia Gardens on Thursday.

He was treated on the outfield in Cardiff before being sent to hospital for further assessment. The England international then saw a specialist on Friday and underwent a scan to establish the extent of the damage.

Billings requires surgery to help repair his shoulder and that means a length absence from the game.

Kent director of cricket Paul Downton said: "Sam has seen a specialist this morning (April 26), where he underwent a scan to assess the extent of his injury. The scan highlighted significant damage to his shoulder, meaning he will require surgical intervention.

"This surgery has been scheduled for next week and it is anticipated that he will be back to fitness within three to five months.

"I know I speak for everyone at Kent Cricket when I say we really feel for Sam. To have picked up this kind of injury ahead of what was set to be an exciting summer is tough. However, I have no doubt that his dedicated professionalism and strong mindset, will see him working hard behind the scenes to return back to fitness as soon as possible."

Billings' place in the England squad for the one-off one-day international against Ireland in Malahide and the T20I clash with Pakistan in Cardiff has been taken by Ben Foakes.

The Kent captain had not been included in the national setup for the World Cup.