‘Sorry, I’m done’ - Moeen Ali rules out potential Test return for England

England all-rounder Moeen Ali has turned his back on a potential Test return for his national side as he shared an ‘honest’ stance with red-ball Head Coach Brendon McCullum.

The 35-year-old announced his retirement from the longest format in September 2021. However, in June (2022) McCullum held talks with the all-rounder over a potential return to the red-ball format. England are set to play Pakistan in a three match test series commencing from December 1 in Pakistan.

Moeen cleared to McCullum that he will not be taking part in the forthcoming Test series that is scheduled to be played in Pakistan. However, the southpaw will be a vital player for England in the T20 World Cup 2022 that will be played down under in less than two weeks.

Moeen Ali not to make Test return

Moeen, scored 2914 runs at an average of 28.29 and picked up 195 wickets in 64 outings during his Test stint with the national side. The left hander mentioned in the Daily Mail that he had held talks with McCullum on a Test cricket return.

"I've had an honest chat with Baz (Brendon McCullum) and I can't see myself being stuck in hotels for another month and playing to the best of my ability, Baz phoned me, we spoke at length and I said, 'Sorry, I'm done'. He understands, he knows the feeling. Test cricket is hard work. I'm 35 and something's got to give."

Moeen also added that he wants to relish the game and doesn't feel he can offer much in Test cricket. He has been doing well in white-ball cricket and wants to concentrate on it.

"I want to enjoy my cricket and it wouldn't be fair to reverse my decision and then struggle to give it my all. It's time to close the door on that side of my career. To play 64 tests for England has been a privilege and a dream fulfilled,” added Moeen.