Moeen Ali to take a break from competitive cricket, confirms Alex Gidman
England all-rounder Moeen Ali is set to take a break from competitive cricket, according Worcester have announced. Moeen was dropped from the England squad for the second Ashes Test after a disappointing performance at Edgbaston where he had figures of three for 172 and scores of 0 and 4.
Although his team headed into the Ashes high on confidence from the World Cup triumph, the same was not the case for Moeen. Being dropped from the Ashes squad caps off what has been a torrid time for Moeen after he was dropped during the group stages of the World Cup.
Perhaps the bigger worry for Moeen himself is how poorly he bowled in the second innings of the first Test. The 32-year old’s performance on a turning track was punctuated even more by his counterpart Nathan Lyon’s six-fer in the following innings.
The English selectors have opted for Somerset's left-arm spinner Jack Leach in a bid to give them more control on a Lord's pitch that may also help the spinners on the fourth or fifth day.
With the bat, things have been ever more bland for Moeen, who has registered four ducks in his last nine Test innings.
His county coach Alex Gidman reckons it will be vital for Moeen to take some time off to recharge his batteries.
"Mo is spending a little time away from the middle recharging his batteries and putting in some quality practice time which he feels he needs, and we completely respect. He has had an intense schedule of international cricket involving the ICC World Cup and the start of the Ashes,” Gidman was quoted saying by Cricbuzz.
Being left out from the national team, Moeen would have been available immediately for Worcestershire’s T20 Blast campaign. However, with the break, it is only possible that Moeen makes a return to first-class action for the club against Northamptonshire on the 18th. Moeen will hope to launch a fresh case to reclaim his Test spot. Gidman said that both him and the team are looking forward to the all-rounder’s return.
“Mo loves playing for Worcestershire and he gives a lift to everyone in the dressing room when he comes back and plays for us. We saw at Trent Bridge (in the Blast) what he gives to us and we look forward to when he returns soon," Gidman added.
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