Worcestershire cricketer Moeen Ali retires from Test matches
The all-rounder will now focus on the shorter formats of the game
Last updated 27th Sep 2021
Worcestershire's Moeen Ali has announced his retirement from Test cricket.
Since making his debut in 2014, the all-rounder took 195 wickets in 64 Tests with his off-spin bowling. He also scored 2,914 runs, including five centuries.
The 34-year-old described the intensity of the longest format as "too much sometimes", but said that he was "happy and content" with his performances.
When making the announcement, Moeen also confirmed he will continue to play in limited-overs internationals.
'It's better than any other format by far'
"I'm 34 now and I want to play for as long as I can and I just want to enjoy my cricket.
"Test cricket is amazing, when you're having a good day it's better than any other format by far, it's more rewarding and you feel like you've really earned it.
"I will miss just walking out there with the lads, playing against the best in the world with that feeling of nerves but also, from a bowling point of view, knowing with my best ball I could get anyone out," Moeen said.
'You hope to open the door for someone else'
After losing his central contract with England in 2019, Moeen has focussed more on franchise cricket.
He captained Birmingham Phoenix in the inaugural men's Hundred this summer and is expected to continue playing white-ball cricket domestically for Worcestershire.
The all-rounder thanked his coaches and captains past and present, as well as his family, for the support they have offered throughout his career.
Moeen also said he wants his career to inspire other English Muslims to play Test cricket.
"I'd love one day in 8-10 years' time to say Moeen made it easier for me. There have been guys before me who made it easier, so you hope to open the door for someone else," he added.