Ashes: Moeen Ali can produce unbelievable match-winning performances, says England Test captain Ben Stokes
Moeen Ali #MoeenAli
England Test captain Ben Stokes radiated positivity as he discussed the 2023 Ashes series. Since taking over the captaincy a year ago, Stokes has prioritised a positive mindset, evident in his own resilience and the ‘Bazball’ approach of his team.
Ahead of the five-Test match series, Stokes took a significant decision to bring Moeen Ali out of Test retirement, a move that demonstrates his commitment to building a formidable squad. Stokes has shown remarkable improvement in his own health, a concern following knee issues during the New Zealand tour and limited appearances for the Chennai Super Kings in the 2023 IPL.
With strapping around his left knee, he has been bowling at full intensity, a development that has boosted his confidence. The all-rounder expressed satisfaction with his progress, stating that he is in an excellent position to bowl in the Ashes.
“I have bowled every day so far and been able to run in with more intensity, day by day,” Stokes said. “I have got myself in a real good place to be able to bowl.
“But (bowling coach) David Saker has obviously come in and he mentioned something to me last week when we were in Scotland. He said if you are still bowling by the fourth and fifth test, we have done something right. I think I’ll give 100 percent of what I’ve got all the time.”
Stokes’ decision to recall Moeen, who retired from Test cricket nearly two years ago, has raised eyebrows. However, Stokes defended his choice, citing Moeen’s ability to produce exceptional match-winning performances. The captain acknowledged that Moeen’s best days may be in the past but stressed that he was focusing on the positive impact the experienced spinner could bring to the team.
“He (Moeen) is a player who can produce unbelievable match-winning performances, albeit a long time ago (in tests), and it was something I couldn’t look past,” Stokes said.
“That was a stomach and a heart feeling rather than my brain. I’ve generally stuck with my gut and my heart throughout my whole captaincy so far. Moeen Ali is going to come in here and I’m looking at what he can offer to this team on his best days and not worrying about anything else.”
The Ashes series commences on June 16, with Edgbaston hosting the first Test between England and Australia.
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