England cricketer Moeen Ali has opened up about the intense personal turmoil he experienced during the suspension of IPL 2025, revealing that his parents were stuck in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) when Indian missile strikes occurred nearby. Moeen, who was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders squad, chose not to return to India after the tournament resumed following a temporary halt due to rising military tensions between India and Pakistan.
Speaking on the “Beard Before Wicket” podcast, Moeen said, “My parents were actually in Kashmir at the time… only about an hour away from where the strikes happened. It was a bit crazy, but they managed to get out on the only flights available that day.”
“Felt Like We Were in a Warzone”: Moeen’s Scramble to Exit India
Moeen, who was in India with his wife and children, described the situation as chaotic. “It felt like we were in the middle of a war. Things escalated quickly, and we were just scrambling to get out,” he said.
The IPL was suspended on May 9 after a match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was halted mid-way in Dharamsala due to regional blackouts following India’s Operation Sindoor. Moeen revealed he left India even before the official suspension was announced, prioritizing his family’s safety.
“Was Really Sick, Just Needed to Leave”: Moeen on His Exit
The 36-year-old former all-rounder also mentioned battling a viral illness during this time. “I wasn’t well, and I just wanted to make sure I was fit enough to travel. What matters most is the safety of your family and kids,” he added.
Moeen had announced his retirement from international cricket in September 2024, but his IPL stint was disrupted by health issues and geopolitical conflict. His candid story highlights the broader impact of international tension on athletes and their families, going far beyond the cricket field.
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