Picture Credit: ECB
England all-rounder Moeen Ali is set to announce his immediate retirement from Test cricket on Monday. As per reports in British media, Ali has already informed about his decision to captain Joe Root and coach Chris Silverwood. The 34-year-old reportedly wants to prolong his white-ball career. Hence, it is likely that he will continue to play county and franchise cricket.
According to a report in ESPNcricinfo, he has made this decision because he is uncomfortable with possible extended time away from home in the coming months as a likely member of both the T20 World Cup and Ashes squad. England’s next Test series is against Australia in the Ashes, starting in December.
Notably, the all-rounder played little Test cricket since the 2019 Ashes but he was recalled for the home summer series against India and played in three matches. England and Wales Cricket Board even named Moeen Ali as Joe Root's deputy for the fourth Test against India in the absence of regular vice-captain Jos Buttler, who was on a paternity break.
Moeen has decided to focus the rest of his career on the limited-overs formats. The 34-year-old scored 2,914 runs in 64 Tests at an average of 28.29 and took 195 wickets with his off-spin. He is currently playing for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League 2021.
