Sam Billings claims his extended run in the side “definitely helps” him improve his wicketkeeping, although he admitted the role has not been without its drawbacks.

The 22-year-old impressed with the gloves in the win over Surrey, claiming three stumpings off Adam Riley and took eight catches in the two games which preceded it after being selected ahead of Geraint Jones to start the Kent season behind the stumps.

Billings said: “It’s about getting consistency and rhythm. It’s like anything – batting, keeping or bowling – and keeping more and more to the bowlers. Getting used to the boys helps, too.”

Billings, however, revealed there was one negative with facing more than 190 overs of Kent’s attack in the win against Surrey, adding: “It’s a different kettle of fish keeping to 90mph consistently.

“I’m having to wear two inners now because my hands are just bruised from Dougie (Bollinger) relentlessly slamming it in. It’s all great experience though.”