SL vs ENG: Moeen Ali cleared to join England's bubble
All-rounder Moeen Ali, on Saturday, entered England's bio-bubble after clearing two COVID-19 tests. Notably, the spin-bowling all-rounder joined his team-mates 13 days after arriving in Sri Lanka. Moeen was tested positive for COVID-19 with mild symptoms upon arrival, before getting isolated from the rest of the touring party. His comeback comes as a boost to the tourists, who are presently dominating the first Test.
After returning COVID-positive, Moeen was originally expected to be in quarantine for 10 days. However, that period was extended by three days following Sri Lankan government's reservations over the new UK strain of virus.
England missed the services of Moeen on Day 3 of the first Test. In the second innings, SL openers Lahiru Thirimanne and Kusal Perera added 100 runs before Sam Curran dismissed the latter. The likes of Dom Bess and Jack Leach looked a touch rusty in the second innings despite taking wickets. Sri Lanka are nearing the 300-run mark with five wickets in hand.
Reflecting on the same, England all-rounder Curran said, "Look at our spinners and some of the seamers as well - no one's really played much cricket. You'd expect a bit of rustiness. The buildup was what it was. We had no complaints - [Joe] Rooty was very clear that we needed to hit the ground running which we luckily did on day one."
Although Moeen brings plenty of experience to the table, he is unlikely to play even in the second Test, considering his match practice. Notably, he played his last Test at the Ashes 2019. Meanwhile, his last international came against Australia in the Manchester ODI last year. It will be interesting to see if he gets a call-up for the second Test, starting January 22.
Moeen boasts a terrific record against Sri Lanka in Test cricket. He has amassed 429 runs (35.75) and taken 23 wickets (34.86) from eight Tests. Interestingly, two of his five Test tons have come against Sri Lanka.
Curran expressed contentment on Moeen's comeback. "It's great to have Mo back. When we walked into the changing room [at tea] we saw Mo and there were smiles on everyone's faces. He's obviously had a really tough couple of weeks and no one wants to get into the situation he was in. Thankfully he got through," he said.
