Ben Stokes Eyes May Return After Narrowly Escaping Serious Injury in Training

England Test captain Ben Stokes is planning to make his return to cricket in May, following a 'lucky' escape from a serious training accident. Stokes suffered a broken cheekbone and other facial injuries when he was struck by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players in February. He underwent surgery and is now on track to play for Durham in two County Championship matches, against Worcestershire on May 8 and Kent on May 15. Stokes may also feature for England Lions against South Africa A later in May, ahead of the first Test of the summer against New Zealand on June 4. Speaking about the incident, Stokes said it was 'pretty nasty' but he felt 'lucky' to have escaped more serious harm. The accident occurred when Stokes was hit in the face by a ball, and he acknowledged that the outcome could have been much worse if he had not turned his head at the last moment. Stokes expressed his gratitude for the positive outcome and is now focused on getting back to full fitness. He is expected to lead England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lord's, as the team seeks to bounce back from their 4-1 Ashes defeat. Stokes also addressed speculation about his relationship with head coach Brendon McCullum, dismissing suggestions that they are not aligned. He emphasized the importance of debate and discussion in a healthy sporting relationship, saying that differences of opinion are a natural and necessary part of achieving success. Elsewhere, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still to be determined.