New Delhi, Jan 28 (NationPress) The Yorkshire County Cricket Club revealed on Wednesday that Moeen Ali, the former England all-rounder, has decided to reverse his domestic retirement and has signed a Blast-only contract for the 2026 season, with an option for extension into 2027.

Moeen, a two-time IPL champion with Chennai Super Kings, previously led Worcestershire to their inaugural Blast victory in 2018 and also captained Birmingham Phoenix to the final of the first Hundred tournament. He is recognized as one of the most accomplished white-ball cricketers of his generation in domestic and franchise competitions globally.

Throughout his career, Moeen has played 420 T20 matches, accumulating 7,792 runs and taking 271 wickets. His highest score stands at 121 not out in the Vitality Blast. A vital member of England’s successful limited-overs teams, he has celebrated two World Cup victories. In 92 T20 Internationals, he has secured 51 wickets and scored 1,229 runs, including seven half-centuries.

“I am thrilled to be joining Yorkshire for the Blast. This is a prestigious club with a rich history, but the direction in which the team is headed genuinely excites me. There’s immense talent within the squad, and I am eager to collaborate with Anthony to propel the group forward. Playing at Headingley has always been a joy for me — the pitch, the atmosphere, and the fans create a unique experience. This feels like a new challenge, and I am coming in with a strong desire to contribute. I aim to bring my experience, enjoy my cricket, and assist Yorkshire in competing,” Moeen expressed in a statement from the club.

Yorkshire has yet to capture a Blast title and finished eighth out of nine teams in the North Group last season. The club saw Dawid Malan depart for Gloucestershire and Jordan Thompson move to Warwickshire during the off-season but welcomed Australians Sam Whiteman and Andrew Tye as local players, along with overseas signings Naveen-ul-Haq and Logan van Beek.

Gavin Hamilton, Yorkshire’s general manager of cricket, believes that this signing underscores the club’s aspirations and future goals.

“Moeen is an elite all-rounder whose impact goes far beyond his performance on the field. His experience and leadership will prove invaluable as we reinforce our T20 squad and strive to build a team capable of consistently challenging in the Blast. He will bring a significant presence to the dressing room, and his arrival will be beneficial for the club and for cricket in Yorkshire.

“His choice to join Yorkshire reflects the club's strategic direction and the environment we are creating. We are eager about what Moeen will offer, not only in terms of performance but also in setting benchmarks and motivating the group,” he said.