moeen ali

This Muslim Cricketer Follows Faf du Plessis Path; Prefers PSL Over IPL

Monojit Das

Modified - Dec 01, 2025, 02:04 PM

3 min

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Former England cricketer Moeen Ali has become the latest international star to prefer the Pakistan Super League over the Indian Premier League. In a recent development, Moeen made it clear that he will be playing the upcoming season of PSL while opting out of the IPL.

A few days ago, Faf du Plessis, another international star bowed out of the IPL 2026 auction to take part in the PSL. The decision had mixed reactions as it was viewed with Du Plessis' declining popularity in the Indian Premier League.

Moeen Ali Leaves IPL to Play PSL

Moeen announced through his Instagram handle that he will be playing in the PSL this season which is the reason why he has almost pulled out of the IPL. The IPL auction 2026 is scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi.

“I’m really excited to be joining HBL PSL in its New Era. The league has earned a reputation for top-level T20 cricket, with high-quality competition and world-class talent across every team. Playing in Pakistan is always incredible; quality of cricket is outstanding and the passion and intensity from the crowd push you to bring your best. I’m looking forward to being part of it all and creating some great memories along the way. Ready for another special experience Insha’Allah!”

It is to be noted that Moeen Ali hasn't bowed out of the IPL this year, however, the chances of him playing in the richest cricket league in the world seems slim. The all-rounder has been associated with the Indian Premier League for a long time but his declining form might be the reason for him preferring the other league.

Moeen Ali IPL Career

Moeen Ali retired from international cricket in 2024 as one of the best all-rounders in the world. He was released by KKR earlier and was supposed to be in IPL 2026 auction. He played in just six matches last season in which he hardly made any impact. He picked up six wickets with his off-spin but wasn't at his best with the bat.

Moeen Ali IPL career has been decorated with two titles. He has been a regular player in the IPL since 2018. Overall, he has played for three different IPL teams, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders. Among all these teams, his best came while playing for CSK as he helped CSK win the title in 2018 and 2023. The year 2018 was particularly good as he was at his best.

Moeen Ali PSL career hasn't been as long as it could have been. The England all-rounder has been a part of Multan Sultans from 2019 to 2021. Known as a useful middle order batter and a skillful off-spinner, he will be aiming to make an impression in PSL 2026.