England Test captain Ben Stokes is on track to return to action in May, following a 'lucky' escape from a serious training accident that left him with a broken cheekbone and facial injuries. Stokes was struck in the face by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players in February, but has undergone successful surgery and is now targeting a comeback in County Championship matches for Durham against Worcestershire and Kent.
The 30-year-old also hopes to feature for England Lions against South Africa A, ahead of the first Test of the summer against New Zealand on June 4. Stokes reflected on the training incident, saying: 'It was pretty nasty, but probably the best result of a bad situation.
I'm just thankful to be here and that everything is all right.' Stokes' return to fitness is a boost for England, who are looking to bounce back from their 4-1 Ashes defeat over the winter. He is expected to lead the team in the first Test against New Zealand at Lord's, and has dismissed suggestions of a rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, saying that differences of opinion are a natural and healthy part of their sporting 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 Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still to be determined.