• Home
  • Who Said What
  • Im Done Moeen Ali Confirms Second Test Cricket Retirement After Winning The Fifth Ashes Test

'I’m Done...,' Moeen Ali Confirms Second Test Cricket Retirement after Winning the Fifth Ashes Test

image-lkrado0jMoeen bagged three important wickets in his last Test match. (Twitter)

England all-rounder Moeen Ali made the decision to retire from Test cricket once again after the conclusion of the Ashes 2023 series on July 31.

Despite facing a 0-2 deficit, England displayed a remarkable comeback, finishing the five-match series with a 2-2 draw. Moeen's pivotal role in the team's triumph was evident, especially on the final day of the fifth Test, where he battled through a groin injury to take three crucial wickets, contributing significantly to England's victory.

Having bid farewell to the longest format of the game in 2021, Moeen surprisingly returned to Test cricket following discussions with captain Ben Stokes, head coach Brendon McCullum, and Managing Director Rob Key. His inclusion in the Ashes 2023 squad came as a replacement for spinner Jack Leach, who was sidelined due to a severe injury.

Moeen shared an amusing anecdote about his return to Test cricket. After being contacted by Stokes with a one-word message, "Ashes?", Moeen responded humorously by saying "LOL", unaware of Leach's injury, thinking Stokes was teasing him.

His final Test match took place in the Ashes finale against Australia, where England emerged victorious by 49 runs, resulting in a series draw. After the match, Moeen declared that if Stokes were to message him again for the India tour next year, he would dismiss the idea, firmly believing that his time in Test cricket has come to an end.

“No, I know I’m done. If Stokes messages me again, I’m going to delete it. That’s me done. I’ve had a great time but I know that’s it for me,” Moeen Ali told Sky Sports.

Reflecting on his experience representing England once again in Test cricket, Moeen expressed his delight. Despite anticipating mental and physical challenges, he thoroughly enjoyed his return to the team during the series. Acknowledging the memorable nature of the Ashes battle, he considered it a cherished chapter of his cricketing journey.

“Been amazing, great to come back. Was taken aback when I got the message from Stokes, didn’t know that Leach was injured but I really enjoyed it after coming into the series. I knew mentally it was going to be tough but I knew the toughest thing was going to be physical. Was an amazing series, I’ll never forget. I thought it’s going to be my last few Test matches so I’ll do it for the team. I’ve batted at three before so it was great,”  added Moeen.

Amidst the attention on Stuart Broad's retirement, it should not go unnoticed that Moeen Ali also bid farewell to Test cricket on the same day.