Srinagar, Sep 09: In the third and final T20I between England and Australia in Southampton, England are being led by all-rounder and 33-year-old Moeen Ali. Thus, the left-hander entered the records book by being the first Asian origin cricketer to captain England in any format since former cricketer-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain in 2003. In addition, he is the first British Asian cricketer to captain England in the shortest format.
Following the absence of regular Eoin Morgan and vice-captain Jos Buttler, who has been granted to be out of the bio-bubble to meet his family, Moeen came out for the coin toss. At the toss, he stated, “An honour to captain my country. The responsibility is really good to have. Don’t think I’ll be as good as Morgan, but a captain like Morgan always generates other leaders in the side too. “
Talking about Hussain, whose feat Moeen matched on Tuesday (September 8), the former right-hander was one of the most successful captains for England. In 45 Tests, he led the national side to 17 wins and 15 losses. On the other hand, he captained England in 56 ODIs, winning 28 and losing 27. The 52-year-old led England even during the 2003 World Cup in South Africa.
Moeen would be eager to make the most of the opportunity of leading his country. Talking about his run in the series, so far, the all-rounder hasn’t had many opportunities with the bat. He was dismissed on 2 in the series opener whereas remained not out on 13 in the second and penultimate T20I when Jos Buttler’s 77 not out propelled the home side to a six-wicket win. In addition, the 33-year-old stand-in captain is yet to take a wicket in the series.
