Welcome back Mo, can you play in next game?

MOEEN ALI rejoined his England team-mates yesterday after almost a fortnight in isolation.

Ali was released from quarantine halfway through the third day of the first Test and headed straight to the ground in Galle.

Although all England’s touring party tested negative for Covid predeparture, the 33- year- old had a positive test upon arrival in Hambantota and went into isolation.

He was originally due to return last Wednesday but the Sri Lanka Government extended the period by 72 hours to 13 days due to concerns over the UK variant.

Ali will return to practice as soon as possible but is unlikely to play in Friday’s second Test because of his lack of preparation and fitness, meaning his target will be next month’s series in India.

Sam Curran said: ‘We all walked into the changing-room and to see Mo put a smile on everyone’s faces.’