England all-rounder Moeen retires from Test cricket

TIL Desk Sports/ England all-rounder Moeen Ali has announced his retirement from Test cricket, the England and Wales Cricket Board said on Monday. Moeen, who made his Test debut in 2014, scored 2,914 runs in 64 matches at an average of 28.29 and picked up 195 wickets with his off-spin.

Moeen said in a statement that he was satisfied with his Test career and hoped it would inspire other British Muslims to play for England. “I’ve enjoyed Test cricket but that intensity can be too much sometimes and I feel like I’ve done enough of it and I’m happy and content with how I’ve done,” he said.

“It always takes somebody to inspire you … I know he wasn’t English but someone like (former South Africa batter) Hashim Amla, when I first saw him, I thought if he can do it I can do it, it does take that little spark. “I’d love (for someone) one day in 8-10 years’ time to say Moeen made it easier for me.” Having played little Test cricket since the 2019 Ashes, Moeen was recalled for the home summer series against India and played in three matches.