England all-rounder Moeen Ali has announced his retirement from international cricket after being left out of England’s white-ball squads for the upcoming home series against Australia. Ali, who had previously retired twice from Test cricket, played a key role for England in both the ODI World Cup 2023 and T20 World Cup 2024.
In an interview with Nasser Hussain for the Daily Mail, Ali reflected on his decision to step away, stating that playing for England had been the best experience of his life. However, he recognized that it was time to let the team evolve. He clarified that his retirement was not due to a lack of fitness or ability but rather because the team needed to move forward.
“I could hold on and try to play for England again, but I know in reality I won’t. Even retiring, I don’t feel it’s because I’m not good enough – I still feel I can play. But I get how things are, and the team needs to evolve into another cycle,” Ali explained.
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As England host Sri Lanka for a three-match Test series, Australia will be arriving in the UK immediately after. The third Test against Sri Lanka concludes on September 10, followed by the first T20I against Australia on September 11. This series also marks Marcus Trescothick’s first assignment as England’s white-ball head coach, following Matthew Mott’s departure. Notably, England will be without key players Moeen Ali, Chris Jordan, Jos Buttler, and Jonny Bairstow for the series.