Ben Stokes Aims for May Return After Narrowly Escaping Serious Injury

England Test captain Ben Stokes is on track to return to cricket in May after a 'lucky' escape from a serious training accident. Stokes suffered a broken cheekbone and other facial injuries when hit by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players in February. Following surgery, he is 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, saying it was 'pretty nasty' but he was 'pretty thankful' to have escaped more severe consequences. He is expected to lead England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lord's, seeking to bounce back from the 4-1 Ashes defeat. Stokes also addressed suggestions of disagreements with head coach Brendon McCullum, stating that differences of opinion are normal and healthy in a sporting relationship. Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to a hand injury, with the severity and impact on his England participation yet to be determined.