Moeen Ali named England vice-captain for fourth Test

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have confirmed that all-rounder Moeen Ali will serve as Joe Root’s deputy for the fourth Test against India at The Oval, after incumbent vice-captain Jos Buttler departed the squad owing to the birth of his child. 

A 63-Test veteran, Ali was not in the squad for the first Test at Trent Bridge, but was recalled after the draw in Nottingham, post which he played each of the next two Tests in the series. 

A certain starter for the fourth Test in Oval, the 34-year-old has been named the vice-captain in the absence of both Buttler and Ben Stokes, despite reports suggesting that opener Rory Burns was favorite to be handed the role. 

Moeen Ali has been named as our vice-captain for the fourth LV= Insurance Test against India. Congrats, Mo! 👏 pic.twitter.com/4eYRn9WXWv

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 1, 2021

Ali, despite not setting the stage alight thus far this series, has made handy contributions with both bat and all. The off-spinner has taken 4 wickets at 45.25 a piece, showcasing great control, while he has registered a high score of 27 with the bat.