Moeen Ali on Jofra Archer Pace: ‘Haven’t Faced Such Speed Since Ashes’
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) registered their first win of IPL 2025 in style, thrashing Rajasthan Royals (RR) by eight wickets at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. While the victory was a team effort, the spotlight was on Moeen Ali, who made his KKR debut in place of the unwell Sunil Narine. After the game, Moeen’s comments about Archer’s bowling have caught everyone’s attention. The remark has triggered buzz around Moeen Ali on Jofra Archer pace, despite Archer having a rough outing.
KKR Dominate as Moeen Ali Steps In
Moeen Ali stepped up when called upon, delivering a match-turning bowling performance. His spin played a crucial role in holding RR to just 151/9, helping KKR bounce back from their opening loss. With Narine unavailable, Moeen took on the dual responsibility of opening the batting and being one of the key spinners.
While his bowling efforts shone, Moeen had a forgettable outing with the bat, scoring only 5 runs from 12 balls before a run-out ended his stay. However, the major talking point post-match was Moeen Ali on Jofra Archer pace, and how the speedster reminded him of England’s Ashes intensity.
Moeen Ali on Jofra Archer Pace: ‘Too Quick For Me’
Despite Archer’s struggles this season, Moeen was full of praise for the RR pacer. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Moeen said:
“I have not faced that sort of fast bowling probably since the Ashes. I was the unlucky one facing him. He was too quick for me.”
The comment has added a new layer to the ongoing discussions around Jofra Archer’s form and impact. Although Archer had another disappointing outing — conceding 33 runs in just 2.3 overs — the Moeen Ali on Jofra Archer pace remark is a testament to the respect Archer still commands among his peers.
Jofra Archer Struggles Continue in IPL 2025
Archer’s form has been a concern for Rajasthan Royals. In their previous clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Archer leaked 76 runs in four overs, marking the most expensive spell in T20 history. His bowling figures against KKR weren’t impressive either, conceding runs at an economy of over 13. However, Moeen’s statement underlines that the pace Archer generates still intimidates even seasoned international cricketers.
Moeen’s Mindset: Improvement at 37
Apart from the comment on Archer, Moeen reflected on his own performance and mindset. He acknowledged that replacing Sunil Narine is no small task but was pleased with how he handled the challenge.
“It was hard to replace Sunil but I did a fair job… Trying to get better at 37-years-old. Just to stay on top of your game and still try to improve and develop.”
He also added that he enjoys bowling on wickets that offer assistance to spinners and looks to “keep the stumps in play,” particularly against left-handers.
What’s Next for KKR and Archer?
With their morale-boosting win, Kolkata Knight Riders will now face Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on March 31. For Moeen, this is another chance to make a strong impact in a team filled with star players like Narine, Russell, and de Kock.
As for Archer, the Moeen Ali on Jofra Archer pace comment might serve as a confidence booster. Despite poor numbers in IPL 2025 so far, he still has the backing of experienced players and fans alike.
Final Word on Moeen Ali on Jofra Archer Pace
The Moeen Ali on Jofra Archer pace remark highlights the fine line between form and fear factor in cricket. While Archer’s statistics don’t flatter him right now, the sheer velocity he bowls at continues to make batters wary. For Moeen, facing Archer in the powerplay was a throwback to his Ashes battles — a moment that underlines how raw pace can still rattle the best in the business.
