Moeen Ali has admitted the "door is open" to a potential return to the England Test team, despite his retirement from the format less than a year ago.
Moeen officially retired from Test cricket last September, admitting he "found it a struggle to get in the zone bowling and batting and in the field" during the series against India. However, the 34-year-old has revealed he could reverse his decision after being sounded out by new England Test coach Brendon McCullum.
Following his appointment, McCullum suggested he may try and coax Moeen out of retirement, saying: "I'm sure if Mo wanted to and was prepared to put the yards in to make it back into the side then he’d challenge, no doubt. I'd have to have a conversation with Mo but there's plenty of other jobs to worry about as we get ready for the first Test."
And Moeen has refused to rule out a return to Test cricket, telling the Guardian, Moeen said: "Baz [McCullum] messaged me asking if I was 'in'. I have played with him in the Indian Premier League and really enjoyed the way he works.
"We spoke and he mentioned potentially, in the future, if there is a tour – or whenever, really – would I be available? I said 'call me at the time'.
"We'll see. The door is open. But I don't want to disrespect Jack Leach. It's a difficult job – especially in England – and I know that. I back him, I'm right behind him. I don't want to put any pressure there, he's a fantastic bowler.
"I saw the suggestion of me not enjoying Joe Root's captaincy but I did, he was always good to me. He's a friend of mine and a great guy.
"When I retired I was finding it hard to get going. I had a few niggles, I was tired, I wasn't enjoying it as much as I should. But playing for England is amazing, especially at home.
"And even though it's sad Chris Silverwood went as head coach and Root stepped down as captain, it's always exciting when there is a new chapter. Brendon is a straight, honest guy, we've had a chat and maybe in the future, potential tours or whatever, who knows?"
