All major newspapers here carried Moeen Ali's pictures prominently on their sports pages yesterday although the off-spinner had taken only two wickets on the fourth day of the third Test against India
Southampton: All major newspapers here carried Moeen Ali's pictures prominently on their sports pages yesterday although the off-spinner had taken only two wickets on the fourth day of the third Test against India.
Shane Warne
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One wonders what the newspapers will do today after his 6-67 in the second innings guided the hosts to a massive 266-run win yesterday.
Ali is not England's No 1 spinner and has been in the side predominantly as a batsman who can also contribute substantially with the ball. Therefore, his performances have surprised quite a few experts.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly said: "India ought to have counter-attacked him from the Nottingham Test itself. But they allowed him to climb and it proved costly."
Moeen Ali poses for a selfie with a fan after England's win yesterday. Pic/Getty Images
Australia's spin legend Shane Warne said: "Please don't neglect him. He has improved in all the Tests. Mind you, he doesn't have big turn but he is accurate. Fifteen wickets in three Tests is no joking matter. There is no doubt this series will give him a strong foot-hold in the team."
Warne added: "Not only that, he played his cricket and also shouted for Palestine. The character is coming out gradually. Watch out for Moeen Ali."