Ben Stokes Aims for May Return Following 'Fortunate' Training Mishap

England Test captain Ben Stokes is on track to make his return to cricket in May, following a 'fortunate' escape from a serious injury sustained during a training accident. Stokes was hit in the face by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players in February, resulting in a broken right cheekbone and other facial injuries. The 31-year-old underwent surgery and is now set to play for Durham in two County Championship matches in May, as well as potentially featuring for England Lions against South Africa A. Stokes reflected on the incident, stating that it was 'pretty nasty' but he felt 'lucky' to have avoided more severe consequences. The injury initially set back his plans by about a month, but Stokes has since devised a new plan to ensure he is ready for the start of the Test summer. 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 disappointing 4-1 Ashes defeat. Stokes also addressed speculation about his relationship with head coach Brendon McCullum, dismissing suggestions that they are not aligned and emphasizing the importance of debate and discussion in their working relationship. Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still to be determined.