England's Moeen Ali takes break from cricket after Ashes axe

England all-rounder Moeen Ali will take a "short break" from cricket after being dropped from the squad to face Australia in the second Ashes Test this week.

The 32-year-old was axed after scoring nought and four in England's first Test defeat at Edgbaston.

He also struggled with his off-spin, taking three wickets for 172 runs across Australia's two innings, failing to take advantage of a pitch that ought to have suited him.

Moeen, who was a member of England's World Cup-winning squad, has been replaced by Somerset left-arm spinner Jack Leach for the Lord's Test, with his county Worcestershire revealing he will now take a "short break from action".

"Mo is spending a little time away from the middle recharging his batteries and putting in some quality practice time which he feels he needs, and we completely respect," Worcestershire first-team coach Alex Gidman told the club's website on Tuesday.

"He has had an intense schedule of international cricket involving the ICC World Cup and the start of the Ashes.

"Mo loves playing for Worcestershire and he gives a lift to everyone in the dressing room when he comes back and plays for us. We look forward to when he returns soon."