Moeen Ali, who last represented England in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, has officially announced his retirement from international cricket. The 37-year-old all-rounder revealed that the decision was based on a realization that he was no longer part of England’s plans for future assignments.
Retirement Decision
Reflecting on his decision, Moeen said, “I’m 37 years old and didn’t get picked for this month’s Australia series. I’ve played a lot of cricket for England. It’s time for the next generation, which was also explained to me. It felt the time was right. I’ve done my part.” He shared these thoughts during an interview with former England captain Nasser Hussain for Daily Mail, as quoted by the ICC.
Moeen enjoyed a successful career, featuring in 298 international matches between 2014 and 2024. He amassed 6,678 international runs and claimed 366 wickets. His contributions were instrumental in England’s triumphs in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Although Moeen acknowledged that he could still play at the highest level, he felt it was time to step aside for England’s rebuilding phase ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. “I could hold on and try to play for England again, but I know in reality I won’t… It’s about being real to myself,” he added.
Moeen made his debut for England in 2014 against the West Indies and evolved into one of the team’s most reliable all-rounders. As a spinner, he took 204 Test wickets, ranking third among England’s spin bowlers, behind Derek Underwood (297) and Graeme Swann (255).