T20 Blast: Moeen Ali confirmed as Birmingham Bears' skipper having re-signed after 16 years

After 16 long years, England star Moeen Ali has re-signed for Birmingham Bears and will also lead the side in the upcoming T20 Blast in England. Notably, the 35-year-old left the club at the tender age of 19 after lack of opportunities. However, he is now ready to make his return to his boyhood club as will aim to finally bring the trophy home - something that Birmingham have failed to do in the last nine years.

Notably, the all-rounder has signed a three-year white-ball contract with the club in 2022. Now, after being announced as the new captain, the England international opened up on the opportunity to lead and stated that this is one of the highlights of his career. He also mentioned that they have a perfect squad with talented players in the youth system.

“I've had several proud moments in my cricket career, but becoming Bears captain having returned to Edgbaston after 16 years is, without doubt, one of the highlights. Grew up just a short walk from Edgbaston, always dreamed of playing at this great stadium when I was a child, and now to be made captain is something special.

The squad looks incredible. There's talent right through the line-up from top to bottom. But what I'm really encouraged about is that there are some young players who, like me, came up through the pathway and academy system at Edgbaston,” Moeen was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

I know how excited he is to be a Bear and lead us at Edgbaston: Mark Robinson

Ahead of the new season, Warwickshire head coach Mark Robinson stated that everyone on the team is excited to meet Moeen and welcome him in the changing room. He added that the all-rounder is extremely talented and a leader on and off the ground.

“Moeen is not only an extremely talented cricketer but a leader on and off the pitch. Anyone who has spent time with Mo talks positively about his ability to motivate a team whilst staying calm in the most pressurised moments.

Mo has led teams in many franchise leagues around the world and I know how excited he is to be a Bear and lead us at Edgbaston. We're all excited to see him and we're really looking forward to welcoming him into the changing room,” Robinson added.

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