England Cricketer Moeen Ali Considering Returning To Test Cricket In The Upcoming Ashes

England cricketer Moeen Ali was mulling over a return to Test cricket for the Ashes series, prompted by team management's request to step in for the injured Jack Leach.

Moeen Ali’s Possible Ashes Comeback

All-rounder Moeen Ali was giving serious thought to rejoining the England squad for the Ashes series, which commenced on June 16. The 35-year-old, who retired from Test Cricket in September 2021, had been in contact with England skipper Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum regarding a potential comeback to the longest format of the game.

Jack Leach's Unfortunate Setback

England's Ashes preparations suffered a blow when Jack Leach was sidelined due to a low back stress fracture sustained during England's Test victory over Ireland.

Moeen Ali's Test Career Statistics

Moeen Ali announced his retirement from Test cricket during the Test series against India in September 2021. In his illustrious Test career, he featured in 64 matches, amassing 2,914 runs with an average of 28.29 and claiming 195 wickets.

Previous Offer Declined

Back in October, the England spinner had declined a request from head coach Brendon McCullum to return to Test cricket.

Broad's Perspective

Stuart Broad, an English pacer, offered his perspective on Moeen's potential return, stating it's hypothetical at the moment. He doesn't know if that's been a thing or a talking point in particular. They recognize Moeen Ali as a phenomenal cricketer who would fit into Stokes and Baz's philosophy beautifully. Broad is unsure if he's being considered by the selectors or if he would consider red-ball cricket again, but he's a mighty fine cricketer.

Exploring Replacement Options

England's management has not solely relied on Moeen Ali; they also explored other options to fill Jack Leach's shoes, including Liam Dawson, Rehan Ahmed, and Will Jacks.

Current England Squad

The current England squad for the Ashes includes Ben Stokes (c), Ollie Pope, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Joe Root, James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Dan Lawrence, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, and Josh Tongue.

In conclusion, Moeen Ali's contemplation of a return to Test cricket for the Ashes series underscores the enduring allure of the game and the respect he commands within the cricketing fraternity. 

Whether he chooses to rekindle his Test career or not, Moeen's legacy as a talented all-rounder remains intact. As the Ashes series drew closer, cricket enthusiasts awaited the final chapter of this captivating story with bated breath.

FAQs
Was Moeen Ali considering returning to Test cricket for the Ashes series?
Yes, Moeen Ali contemplated a return to Test cricket for the Ashes series.
Why did Moeen Ali take into account returning again?
England's team management requested him to step in for the injured Jack Leach.
When did the Ashes series start?
The Ashes collection kicked off on June 16.
What led to Moeen Ali retiring from Test cricket earlier?
Moeen Ali retired from Test cricket in September 2021 in the course of the India series.