England's Moeen considering Test return before Ashes - report

England all-rounder Moeen Ali is considering a Test return ahead of the Ashes against Australia after spinner Jack Leach suffered a fractured lower back, British media reported.

The 35-year-old, who announced his retirement from the longest format of the game in September 2021, is said to have been approached by England captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum over a possible return to Test cricket.

British media said that Moeen, who was part of the Chennai Super Kings team that won the 2021 and 2023 Indian Premier League, has been given some time to take a decision.

Moeen made his Test debut in 2014 and scored 2,914 runs in 64 Tests at an average of 28.29 and took 195 wickets with his off-spin.

England is seeking a replacement for Leach, whose injury was the latest blow to their bowling department in the build-up to the series, with fast bowler Jofra Archer also ruled out with an elbow injury.