The England Skipper’s decision to recall Moeen Ali, despite his retirement from Test cricket nearly two years ago, may indeed surprise some people. However, Ben Stokes has defended his choice by highlighting Moeen Ali‘s ability to deliver exceptional match-winning performances. While acknowledging that Moeen Ali’s best days may be behind him, Stokes emphasized the positive impact the experienced spinner could have on the team.
Moeen Ali retired from Test Cricket a long time ago in September 2021, his last Test match was against India. Many debates have aroused since Moeen’s inclusion in the playing XI by the English selectors. However, Ben Stokes believes that he will facilitate England in its win against Australia in the Ashes and his positive influence over the team will certainly produce results for them.
“That Was A Stomach And A Heart Feeling Rather Than My Brain..” – Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes opines that he is not regretting his decision of including Moeen Ali in the team, he rather believes that he (Moeen) will be a valuable player and his experience can help England to produce results. He stated while talking to a reporter:
“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,” said Ben Stokes.
“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.” he added.
Ben Stokes Injury Updates:
The All-Rounder, believes he is in a perfect position to bowl and radiated positivity ahead of the Ashes 2023. He claims that he has improved quite a great deal and he is all geared up to bowl against the mighty Aussies. He stated:
“I have bowled every day so far and been able to run in with more intensity, day by day. I have got myself in a real good place to be able to bowl.” said Ben Stokes.
“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.” he added.
Also read: ICC World Test Championship 2023: “India Lost The Match The Moment They Chose To Bowl..”- Basit Ali