Former England all-rounder Moeen Ali opted out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction and headed to Pakistan Super League (PSL) again after a gap of five seasons. On December 1, Ali made the announcement on social media, a few days after former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis made the same call as Delhi Capitals (DC) released the 40-year-old opening batter.
“I’m really excited to be joining HBL PSL in its New Era. The league has earned a reputation for top-level T20 cricket, with high-quality competition and world-class talent across every team. Playing in Pakistan is always incredible; quality of cricket is outstanding and the passion and intensity from the crowd push you to bring your best. I’m looking forward to being part of it all and creating some great memories along the way. Ready for another special experience Insha’Allah!” Ali wrote on Instagram.
When was the last time Moeen Ali played PSL?
Ali has played just one PSL season. In 2020, he represented Multan Sultans under Shan Masood's captaincy. Multan Sultans made it to Eliminator 2 where they were beaten by Lahore Qalandars. From nine games in the season, he scored 138 runs at an average of 17.25 and strike rate of 130.18. He has one PSL fifty to his name. The off-spinner bowled a total of 11 overs and claimed five wickets at 22 apiece. His economy rate was 10 runs per over.
Moeen Ali’s IPL career in numbers featuring 2 title wins
Ali made his IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 2018. After three seasons, he was released. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) roped him in and he became the part of their two IPL title wins. After IPL 2024, CSK released him. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) roped him in at the mega auction. In the previous season, he played six games and scored just five runs from two innings. He was more potent with the ball for KKR, claiming six wickets at an average of 22.66. KKR released him ahead of mini-auction.
Ali has played 73 IPL games and scored 1,167 runs at an average of 22.01 and strike rate of 139.76, including six fifties. The off-spinner has bagged 41 wickets at an average of 25.09 including a four-fer against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in a losing cause. His economy rate is expensive at 7.22 runs per over.