Moeen Ali

“There's a lot of misunderstanding out there, particularly in the difference between religion and culture. For example, I hear people criticise Islam for arranged marriages, but that's nothing to do with Islam. It is the culture in some places, but it's actually against Islam.”

“I hope what people see in me is that I'm a normal guy, and that people who look as I do can do normal things.”

“As cricketers and professionals, with the scrutiny that is on us, we have to obviously be careful and behave ourselves.”

“People have the right to support who they want of course but I'm hoping in the future maybe they or their kids will become England fans and players.”

“I never thought I'd be a senior player in a county side, let alone the England side. When you break into a county side, that is your aim, so it's an incredible feeling to have achieved that with England.”

“With young kids watching and hearing the news, we have to be on our best behaviour. I think it's really important that we inspire the younger generation to take up the game. It could turn them away. That's not what we want.”

“I have played quite a few Test matches in the back garden with my two brothers.”

“I'd never go up to somebody and start preaching, but if somebody asks I'm willing to talk about it. Often, after people have seen me praying, they'll ask and it's a chance to show how normal prayer time is and why we do it, to teach people about the religion. Not to try to change them, but to explain.”

“When shots are going for six and you're playing well, everyone is trying to big you up. Mis=hit one, get out, all the negative people come out.”

“I'm not a massive reader of online comments but I come across the odd comment where people still question if I'm English. I find that so silly.”

“The moment we won the World Cup is one I will never forget and would do anything just to experience again. It was the most euphoric sporting sensation you could possibly imagine.”

“Representing England has always been a privilege and my decision to take a break from Test cricket at the end of the home summer was made to ensure that, hopefully, I can do it for a lot longer.”

“In 2014, my first year as an England player, I got booed by some India fans at Edgbaston every time the ball went near me.”

“I've always said it's just a game of cricket. The only pressure I get is when I feel I've let the team down.”

“But I think my dad's academy is one of the best. The first reason he does it is to take people away from the streets and doing all the wrong stuff and for those kids to learn a range of skills.”

“You do your best but I think I'm going to try and get back in as a batsman first, spinner second.”

“I know how much of a uniting game cricket is and as a leader of the Birmingham Phoenix that is something I definitely want to promote.”

“Social media is one of the hardest things about playing for England.”

“I know my responsibilities. They are to my religion, my parents, my wife, my family and my community.”

“In Twenty20 it's not always about straight drives and high elbows. It's amazing how far you can hit the ball. I've always been able to hit the ball far but not consistently like I have in practice over here. I'm enjoying it so much.”