It has been nearly five years since England lost the Ashes urn to Australia in a resounding defeat during the 2017-18 series. However, with a new-look English side led by Captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, there is renewed hope and determination to reclaim cricket’s most prestigious prize. One significant addition to the team is the return of Moeen Ali, the dynamic all-rounder who had previously retired from Test cricket. Moeen’s comeback has sparked excitement and optimism within the team, offering a valuable boost to England’s chances in the upcoming Ashes series.
Following the truncated India series in 2021, Moeen Ali decided to step away from Test cricket to focus on shorter game formats. However, the random text from Ben Stokes, inquiring about his interest in the Ashes, caught Moeen by surprise. Initially taken aback, Moeen’s interest was piqued, and he found himself contemplating a return to the Test arena. With Jack Leach’s injury opening up a spot in the squad, Moeen seized the opportunity to stage a remarkable comeback.
Former captain and assistant coach Paul Collingwood recognizes Moeen Ali’s return as one of the biggest positives for the team. Collingwood emphasizes that Moeen’s infectious energy, sense of humor, and exceptional all-round skills make him an invaluable asset to the English squad. Moreover, Moeen perfectly fits the mold of England’s new aggressive style of cricket, complementing their attacking approach with both bat and ball.
“It’s great to have Moeen back. He’s a great guy; he brings great energy to the team and has a great sense of humor. But not just that, obviously the skillset he brings regarding his all-round game. He is exceptional and exciting as well. He’s the perfect mold for England’s new aggressive style of playing cricket. So good to have him back,” Collingwood said in response to a Cricket Next query during a select media interaction conducted by Sony Sports Network.
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Despite his absence from red-ball cricket for an extended period, Collingwood asserts that the ball’s color is inconsequential. Whether it is the white ball of limited-overs cricket or the traditional red ball used in Tests, Moeen’s approach remains the same. His natural attacking style and love for the game will be instrumental in England’s quest to reclaim the Ashes.
“Regarding Moeen not playing Test cricket for a long time or the red ball games, it doesn’t matter what color the ball is, white or red; we’ll ask him to have the same approach, how he loves to play the game of cricket. His natural attacking style,” he added.
