Moeen Ali reverses his retirement decision, set to play County for Yorkshire in the 2025-26 at the age of 39.
In an unexpected move to Yorkshire for this year’s T20 Blast, Moeen Ali has immediately reversed his retirement from English domestic cricket. After missing the competition the previous season, he is also scheduled to register for the Hundred auction.
Moeen played eight group matches for Warwickshire in the Blast last summer before quitting in the middle of the season to play for Guyana Amazon Warriors in the Caribbean Premier League and the Global Super League, missing the Hundred in the process. Moeen retired from international cricket in September 2024.
In order to get around the ECB’s new policy on No-Objection Certificates (NOCs), he had to retire from English domestic cricket. However, he has since changed his mind and will make Yorkshire his third county, following stints with Warwickshire and Worcestershire.
The 38-year-old Moeen has had a busy winter on the franchise circuit, participating in the Bangladesh Premier League, Canada Super60, Abu Dhabi T10, ILT20, and Pakistan Super League before the Blast begins in May.
His transfer increases the likelihood that he will play with his close friend and former England teammate Adil Rashid, a Yorkshire player who hasn’t played for the Blast since 2022. In addition, he will play with fellow 2019 World Cup winner and long-time England teammate Jonny Bairstow.
“I’m delighted to be joining Yorkshire for the Blast. It’s a huge club with a proud history, but what really appeals to me is where the team is heading,” Moeen said in a club statement. “There’s a lot of talent in the squad and the chance to work with Anthony [McGrath, head coach] and help push the group forward is exciting for me.
“I’ve always loved playing at Headingley. The wicket, the atmosphere and the supporters make it a special place. This feels like a fresh challenge and I’m arriving hungry for it. I want to bring my experience, enjoy my cricket and help Yorkshire compete.”