Moeen, 35, was born in Sparkhill, Birmingham – a few miles down the road from Edgbaston – and reaffirmed his ties with the city last year by captaining Birmingham Phoenix in the inaugural season of the Hundred, a role that will continue this year.
The deal marks Moeen’s return to the club where he started his professional cricket career as a 15-year-old. He developed through the Warwickshire Academy and Second XI ranks, striking a half-century on his first-class and County Championship debuts.
In total, Moeen made 16 appearances for Warwickshire, before joining Worcestershire in 2007.
And though Moeen officially retired from Test cricket last year, having recently given an indication that he would be willing to consider a recall for this winter’s tour of Pakistan, his new Warwickshire deal includes a “pay-as-you-play” clause for potential appearances in the County Championship.
In his time at Worcestershire, Moeen has become an international star, making 228 England appearances across formats, including 2914 runs and 195 wickets in 64 Tests, plus a key role in the England ODI squad that rose from ignominy at the 2015 World Cup to becoming champions four years later.
He is also one of the most sought-after overseas signings at the Indian Premier League, following stints at Royal Challengers Bangalore and now Chennai Super Kings.
“I’m delighted to return home to Edgbaston,” Moeen said. “I was born and raised just a few miles away from the stadium, with my life always centred around Birmingham.
“When the opportunity presented itself, it was a decision I couldn’t say no to and I believe I have unfinished business at the Bears.
“I’m incredibly excited to be back and to play in front of the best atmosphere in world cricket.
“It’s a place that has so much history and players always have memories and stories of playing here. I’m looking forward to contributing and be part of hopefully something special.”
Director of Cricket Paul Farbrace said: “Mo is a huge signing for Warwickshire and a real statement of intent for our ambitions.
“Mo is someone I’ve known for many years and is a leader on and off-the-pitch. The experience he will bring to the Club will be pivotal in our development as a team.
“He says himself that he has unfinished business at Warwickshire and I’m sure the Members and supporters will be excited to see Mo back as a Bear.”
Source: ESPN Crickinfo