Ben Stokes Aims for May Return After Narrowly Escaping Serious Injury in Training

England Test captain Ben Stokes is planning to make his return to cricket in May after a 'lucky' 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. Following surgery, Stokes is on track 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 'pretty thankful' to have escaped more severe consequences. The injury initially set back his preparations by about a month, but Stokes has been working to get back on track. He is expected to lead England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lord's. 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 Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury currently unclear.