Moeen Ali has revealed his joy at being awarded an OBE – and his “love” of still playing for Worcestershire.
The England all-rounder was included in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for services to cricket, and he has made 225 appearances for his country.
But Moeen feels he has been acknowledged for more than his cricketing exploits, and he has been a beacon for British Asian Sport.
He said: “My family and I are ecstatic with it. My parents, in particular, are very happy, and my wife and kids.
“It just feels I’ve been acknowledged for bigger (more) than the game itself, and so I’m really happy.
“You inspire a lot of people, especially from the inner city, and the people that can relate to you.
“I’ve had no banter yet from the lads yet about it (the OBE), but I’m sure I will do! There has been a bit here and there.”
Moeen is back available for four Vitality Blast games before England’s ODI Series in the Netherlands and showed his class with figures of 1-19 against Leicestershire Foxes.
He said: “It is always nice to come back to New Road and see familiar faces, your friends.
“I love coming back here to Worcestershire and playing.”
Moeen confirmed he is also contemplating the possibility of a Test return with England after announcing his retirement last September.
He said: “I’m going to wait and see. It is something I am thinking about.
“It is more if I’m needed more than anything, but it is still far out. The guys are doing well and had a great win against New Zealand.
“We will see. Anything can happen.”
