Moeen Ali takes a break from cricket following Lord’s Test exclusion

England cricketer Moeen Ali has decided to take a break from all forms of cricket following his exclusion from the English squad left out of for the second Ashes Test, commencing from Wednesday.

The 32-year-old has been replaced by Somerset left-arm spinner Jack Leach for Lord´s Test. He was axed after scoring nought and four in England´s first Test defeat at Edgbaston.

Moeen visibly struggled with his off-spin as well in the first Test, he took three wickets for 172 runs across Australia´s two innings, however, he failed to take advantage of a pitch that ought to have suited him.

Worcestershire coach Alex Gidman told the club website: “Mo is spending a little time away from the middle recharging his batteries and putting in some quality practice time which he feels he needs, and we completely respect.

He has had an intense schedule of international cricket involving the ICC World Cup and the start of the Ashes.

Mo loves playing for Worcestershire and he gives a lift to everyone in the dressing room when he comes back and plays for us.

We saw at Trent Bridge [in the Blast] what he gives to us and we look forward to when he returns soon.”

Moeen is the world´s leading Test wicket-taker over the past 12 months, with 48 scalps in 10 matches at an average of 25.27.