"If Stokes Messages Me Again, I'm Going To Delete It" - Moeen Ali Confirms He Will Not Tour India For Tests

England all-rounder Moeen Ali announced his retirement from Test cricket on Monday, July 31, following the conclusion of the fifth Test against Australia in the Ashes 2023. Moeen Ali confirmed that he will not reconsider his decision, even after receiving a message from skipper Ben Stokes.

Moeen Ali, who retired from red-ball cricket in September 2021, made a comeback to the Test squad after left-arm spinner Jack Leach was ruled out of the series due to injury. The all-rounder made valuable contributions with both bat and ball, helping the team level the five-match series 2-2.

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I Know I’m Done – Moeen Ali

Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, Moeen Ali admitted that he is done and will not be part of the Test team for the series against India next year.

“No, I know I’m done. If Stokes messages me again, I’m going to delete it. That’s me done. I’ve had a great time, but I know that’s it for me,” Ali said.

The Ben Stokes-led team is set to tour India for a five-match Test series in 2024. Moeen Ali scored 430 runs in six Tests at an average of 39.09, including two centuries. The off-spinner also picked up 18 wickets.

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The 36-year-old Moeen Ali recalled his conversation with skipper Ben Stokes before the start of the Ashes series. He described the recently concluded series as unforgettable in his career.

“Been amazing, great to come back. Was taken aback when I got the message from Stokes, didn’t know that Leach was injured but I really enjoyed it after coming into the series.

I knew mentally it was going to be tough but I knew the toughest thing was going to be physical. Was an amazing series, I’ll never forget.”

Moeen Ali represented the Three Lions in 68 matches in the longer format. He had an impressive Test career, amassing 3094 runs and picking up 204 wickets. He hit five centuries and 15 half-centuries. He claimed five five-wicket hauls and one 10-wicket haul.

Also read: AUS vs ENG: Moeen Ali Announces Test Retirement Following Ashes 2023 Finale