Moeen Ali reveals how he overcame the system to become a professional cricketer

England star Moeen Ali has revealed he became a professional cricketer in spite of the system not because of it – but that things are a lot better now.

Speaking at the launch of NatWest’s ‘Cricket has no boundaries’ campaign, Ali told Yahoo Sport that for too long it was a state school v public school issue which he and his family refused to accept.

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Ali said: “There is a lot of talent in the inner cities which we do not tap into enough. But the inclusivity issue is different now – it used to be harder to play if you were from a state school – but that was something I refused to accept. And neither did my dad.

“I worked really hard to become a professional cricketer and although things have changed a lot nowadays, they could change a lot more.”

Ali admitted he always casts an eye over people playing cricket at any level and winders if they have what it takes to succeed, feels that hugely improved coaching has brought the game on hugely – but there is no substitute for natural talent.

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With regards to this summer’s ICC Champions Trophy, Ali feels are as well placed as any of the eight teams to win it.

He said: “It’s going to be tough and we are going to have play really well but we have a great chance with a very good side.

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“We play well in England and know the conditions well. The mindset has changed a lot since the World Cup and the coach and captain have allowed us to express ourselves.”

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The 29-year-old Worcestershire all-rounder was stumped when he tried his hand at blind cricket, admitting: ” I did not know a lot about it before I came here. Completely different and fascinating. Takes a lot more skill than you think.”

Moeen Ali was speaking during the launch of NatWest’s ‘Cricket has no boundaries’ campaign which celebrates the sport’s inclusivity. NatWest is the new Principal Partner of England Cricket having supported the game since 1981. Find out more at natwest.com/cricket #NoBoundaries