WORCESTERSHIRE star Moeen Ali is taking a short break from action after being dropped by England for the second Ashes Test against Australia.

The all-rounder has been a virtual ever-present for his country in all formats of the game since making his international debut five-and-a-half years ago – a combined total of 186 matches.

He was part of England’s ICC World Cup-winning team before being picked for the first Ashes Test last week.

But a poor performance in the 251-run defeat to Australia at Edgbaston saw the axe fall on Moeen.

The 32-year-old has now taken some time off before he returns to play for Worcestershire.

First-team coach Alex Gidman said: “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.

“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 saw at Trent Bridge (in the Blast) what he gives to us and we look forward to when he returns soon “