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Former England all-rounder Moeen Ali has cited lack of matches and batting opportunities as reasons behind opting out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction. While at 38 years old, Moeen wouldn’t have been on top of IPL franchises’ wishlists, he may have been picked as a backup player or replacement player later on. As the Englishman returned to Pakistan Super League (PSL), he said that the shorter competition works better for him and his family.
“There's a few reasons. I'm 38 now, and I still want to play, do well, and extend my career as much as possible. Karachi was a big factor in my decision to come here. It’s a shorter competition, which works better for my family and me," Moeen said on ARY Podcast.
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At Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Moeen played just six games. He got to bat twice and scored just five runs from 14 balls. He was impressive with the ball, claiming six wickets at an average of 22.60.
"Last year in the IPL, I played only half the games and barely got to bat, just twice. At this stage, I want to be out there; I want to bat. I feel like I’m playing good cricket towards the back end of my career, and I just want to keep going," he added.
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Moeen Ali’s IPL record
However, Moeen has been part of IPL-winning squad twice. He started his career at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and played for them two seasons. In IPL 2020, he joined CSK and represented them for five seasons. Overall, he played 73 IPL games, scoring 1,167 runs at an average of 22.01 and strike rate of 139.76, featuring six fifties. With the ball, he has 41 wickets at an average of 25.09.
Moeen Ali on PSL return
On his PSL return, he is represented Karachi Kings. From six games, he has scored 132 runs at an average of 26.40 and strike rate of 157.14. The off-spinner has four wickets in the ongoing edition as well. He rues not being part of the two leagues – IPL and PSL -- in the same year due the schedule clash.
"You’re never guaranteed a place anywhere, even here, but I just want to enjoy my cricket as much as I can. I’ve always wanted to experience the PSL, but unfortunately, it slightly clashes with the IPL," he said.
Moeen's Karachi Kings are currently placed sixth on PSL points table with three wins and as many losses. They will take on Multan Sultans on April 19.
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