Veteran All-Rounder to Focus on Global T20 Leagues and Coaching
GLOUCESTERSHIRE: England all-rounder Moeen Ali has announced that he will retire from domestic cricket in England following the conclusion of the 2025 T20 Blast season. The 37-year-old, who ended his international career in 2023, is currently contracted with Warwickshire and will continue to play and coach for the Birmingham Bears during this year’s T20 Blast campaign.
Moeen’s retirement from the English county circuit marks the end of a significant chapter in his cricketing journey, one that has seen him evolve into a respected figure in the sport. His dual role as a player and mentor for Birmingham Bears highlights his transition into coaching — a path he plans to deepen after hanging up his boots domestically. Notably, if the Bears reach the knockout stages of the 2025 Blast, Moeen is expected to step back from playing duties entirely, handing over responsibility to younger talent.
ECB Rules Influence Shift Toward Global Franchise Opportunities
Part of Moeen’s decision has been influenced by the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) regulations, which limit English players’ participation in overseas leagues during the domestic season. By stepping away from county cricket, Moeen intends to fully embrace opportunities in international franchise tournaments, including a possible return to the Caribbean Premier League with the Guyana Amazon Warriors later this year.
Additionally, Moeen has stepped down as captain of the Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred, ending a four-season run at the helm. The move signals a broader pivot in his career toward global T20 leagues and coaching.
Calling his decision a “carefully considered move,” Moeen emphasized that it reflects both professional ambitions and personal priorities, especially spending more time with family. He expressed excitement about continuing his involvement in cricket through mentorship and coaching roles, where he hopes to pass on his knowledge gained over a storied career with England, highlighted by match-winning performances with both bat and ball.
