England’s star all-rounder, Moeen Ali has achieved the remarkable feat of scoring 3,000 runs and claiming 200 wickets in Test cricket. Ali became only the fourth England player to accomplish this extraordinary double, joining the illustrious company of Ian Botham, Andrew Flintoff, and Stuart Broad.
Moeen Ali reached this significant milestone during the fourth Ashes Test against arch-rivals Australia, being held at a packed Lord’s Cricket Ground. After England lost an early wicket, Moeen strode to the crease at number three, exhibiting his exceptional skills with the bat. Displaying his trademark elegance and flair, Ali notched up a well-deserved half-century, his 15th in the Test format. His knock of 54 runs off 82 balls, featuring seven exquisite fours, played a crucial role in England’s strong position in the match.
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Having played 67 Tests for his nation, Moeen Ali has compiled an impressive tally of 3,031 runs at an average of 28.06. Among his notable achievements are five centuries and 15 half-centuries, with a highest score of 155*. Alongside his batting exploits, Ali has also made significant contributions with his off-spin bowling, capturing a total of 201 wickets in the longest format of the game.
In achieving the 3,000-run and 200-wicket double, Moeen Ali now joins a distinguished trio of all-rounders who have previously accomplished this feat. The legendary Ian Botham, regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, amassed 5,200 runs and 383 wickets in 102 Tests. Andrew Flintoff, known for his explosive style, accumulated 3,845 runs and 226 wickets in 79 Tests. Meanwhile, Stuart Broad, a modern-day bowling stalwart, boasts an impressive record of 3,640 runs and a staggering 600 wickets in 166 Tests.
The ongoing Ashes Test witnessed other captivating moments as well. Opting to field first, England managed to dismiss Australia for 317 runs in their first innings. The English pace duo of James Anderson and Chris Woakes were the architects of this bowling performance, with Anderson claiming 1 wicket for 51 runs and Woakes wreaking havoc with figures of 5 wickets for 62 runs. Noteworthy contributions from Marnus Labuschagne (51), Mitchell Marsh (51), Steve Smith (41), Travis Head (48), and Mitchell Starc (36) helped Australia reach a respectable total.
In reply, England’s batting line-up showcased their prowess, with opener Ben Duckett falling early for just one run. Moeen Ali then took charge, forging a crucial partnership of 121 runs for the second wicket with the talented Zak Crawley. Following Ali’s departure, Crawley continued his remarkable innings, reaching his maiden Ashes century and fourth overall in Tests. His brilliant knock of 189 runs off 182 balls, featuring 21 fours and three sixes, enthralled the spectators. England captain Joe Root also contributed with a rapid-fire 84 runs off 95 balls, including eight fours and a six.
At the close of the second day’s play, England found themselves in a commanding position, ending at 384/4 in their first innings. Skipper Ben Stokes remained unbeaten on 24, accompanied by Harry Brook, who was not out on 14. With a lead of 67 runs, the hosts are poised to extend their advantage further in the remaining days of the Test match.
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