Moeen Ali willing to give up Cricket for religion

Moeen Ali after scoring a century during the ICC World Cup 2015

English All-rounder Moeen Ali admits that religion is more important to him than cricket and is even willing to give up his career for Islam. He said that Islam makes him feel free and it is the only thing which gives him happiness. Ali has represented The Three Lions in 26 Tests and 39 ODIs which includes two tons in each format. He has 66 wickets to his name in Tests and 39 in ODIs.

As per the reports of BBC speaking about his religion he said,” At the back of my mind there is a responsibility that I am representing Islam, Muslims and British Asians. It is a positive thing. As long as I perform, which is the most the most important thing and I can behave.”

“The most important thing of everything, it is something that, I feel like it makes me feel free and the one I wanted to be all my life. As a youngster, I was far from it. When I was about 18-19, I decided that this is the way I want to live my life.  It is the only thing that can give me happiness. Cricket is important but nowhere near as important as Islam, if I have to give up cricket tomorrow, it will be easy” said the southpaw on being asked important his faith is towards Islam.

Moeen Ali has been an important member of the English squad from the past two years. He is a handy batsman in the batting line-up, and his off-breaks are more than useful in the ongoing home series against Pakistan.  

When asked about the situation of living as a minority in England, he said,” It is tough, it does feel like you have be on your guard. For me, it’s a part of life, hopefully, I’ll get through the rough bit and hopefully see a bit of light at the end of it and it will be all right. Muslims have had it tough before, other communities have had it tough before in other countries, it’s part of life.”    

England is scheduled to play 4 Tests, 5 ODIs, and a T20 International against Pakistan at home in the on-going series.