Rapids hope Moeen can make a big impression in One Day Cup - The Worcester Observer

Rapids hope Moeen can make a big impression in One Day Cup

Worcester Editorial 31st May, 2018   0

BIG-HITTING Moeen Ali made his first appearance of the season for Worcestershire Rapids in the win over Lancashire and county chiefs hope to be able to call on their England star for the closing stages of the Royal London One Day Cup campaign.

The all-rounder is back available after being part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in the IPL for for the past six weeks.

Moeen played in the final five group matches but the Challengers failed to qualify for the knockout stages.

The fan favourite played five One-Day Cup group matches last summer in addition to the semi-final against Surrey at Blackfinch New Road.




Moeen took 1-49 as Lancashire racked up 254-9 in their 48 overs before getting the Rapids off to a good start with 24 off 21 balls.

Head coach Kevin Sharp and skipper Joe Leach are delighted to have the services of 31-year-old Moeen to call upon.


Sharp said: “To get Mo back, it is always a big boost. The guys love having him here and a man of his skill and ability in our team is precious.

“He is also a role model for them all to look up to in terms of their own aspirations of playing for England.”

“How long have we got Moeen for? I believe England’s first game is on June 10 and the rest of this North Group ends for us on June 7 against Warwickshire.

“If he was picked for the ODI squad, whether he is available to play in that game remains to be seen.

“We would be hopeful of having him in the games up until then and we’ve just got to be directed by the ECB really.

“Moeen is very enthusiastic and looking forward to playing for us. He was keen to get going again, he wanted to come and play

“It was sensible and right for him to have a few days at home when he got back. He’s been away in total for nearly six months and I’m sure he would have enjoyed a few days with his family.

“He has been able to recharge his batteries a little bit and I’m sure we will get the best of him.”

Leach said: “To have Mo around is an absolute bonus. He is a high quality player and popular amongst the lads.

“We are all disappointed for him that he has missed out on that Test squad.

“But hopefully that will be our gain and, knowing Mo, he will be hungry to come and put in performances for us and prove the selectors wrong.”

Online Editions

Catch up on your local news by reading our e-editions on the Worcester Observer.

Announcements

Weddings, Birthdays, Bereavements, Thank you notices, Marriages and more.

Advertising

Advertise with the Worcester Observer to reach your audience

Printing

We can provide all of your printing needs at competitive rates.