Moeen Ali joins PSL 2026, explains why IPL didn’t work out

Former England all-rounder Moeen Ali has explained his choice of playing in Pakistan Super League (PSL) over the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the 2026 edition. The 38-year-old stated that the main reason behind his choice is to maximize playing time, balance family commitments and extend his career further.

The former England player played six matches for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025 and scored only 5 runs with the bat and took six wickets with the ball. Moeen was dropped from playing XI as he only managed six matches and his bowling seemed expensive and at this stage, it looks like his IPL career may be over.

Game time and shorter schedule is the key

Speaking to ARY Podcast, the 38-year-old spoke about the benefits that PSL brings to him.

"There's a few reasons, I'm 38 now and I still want to play and I want to keep myself out there and extend my career as much as I can. Karachi played a part in me coming here; it is a shorter competition which fits in with my family and me."

Moeen explained his situation at the IPL stating that his limited chances prompted him to find other options.

Moeen added:

"In IPL, I barely played half the matches. I batted only twice and to be honest at this stage of my career I just want to keep going and enjoy my cricket. I believe I am playing good cricket towards the end of my career and I want to maximize it."

He has now moved on from IPL to play for Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League in 2026 and has mentioned that it was a league that he had always wanted to play in but couldn't due to a clash with the IPL.

he explained:

"You are never guaranteed anywhere, not even here, but I just want to keep enjoying my cricket. I always wanted to play in the PSL but due to timing, they clash a little with the IPL."

At this stage of his career, there appears to be one over-riding thought for Moeen; more time playing cricket with more emphasis placed on achieving balance.