Moeen Ali has announced his intention to retire from domestic cricket this summer – but still wants to play a role in the Bears’ Vitality Blast campaign.
Ali – who retired from international cricket last year – has decided to call time on his career in England & Wales when his Warwickshire contract finishes in mid-July.
It means the 37-year-old will not feature in The Hundred’s retained list which is set to be announced tomorrow (Tues 25 Feb) or the competition’s subsequent draft.
However, the allrounder says he wants to be part of the Bears push to reach Finals Day this summer in a player-coach capacity.
“This is a big decision for me and not one I’ve taken lightly,” said Ali. “But I’ve reached a decision in the last few days, taking into account what I feel is best for me and my family at this stage in my career.
“I’m still passionate about the game and want to play as much as I can. I still love playing. I still have passion for the game and I love being in a team environment.
“I also enjoy talking to players about cricket, the tactics, and I think that’ll help me move smoothly into coaching after my playing days are over.
“I came back to Warwickshire with an aim of trying to help them win the Blast and I still want to play a role this year. I’ll be available to play throughout the Blast group games, and would love to be involved as a player-coach.”
Warwickshire Chief Executive Stuart Cain described Ali – who is currently taking his Level 3 coaching qualifications – as a hero and inspiration to children across the region.
He added: “Moeen is an icon of cricket and a local hero who has inspired children from all walks of life across our region to pick up a bat and ball.
“So it’s great that he’s finishing his domestic career as a Bear and will continue to help us through 2025 as he starts his transition to life as a coach.
“We’re extremely grateful for all he’s done for us and the game in general.
“Once a Bear, Always a Bear, so hopefully we can continue working with Mo in years to come.”
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