England Test captain Ben Stokes is set to return to cricket in May after a 'lucky' escape from a serious training accident. Stokes suffered a broken right cheekbone and other facial injuries when he was hit by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players in February. Following surgery, Stokes is on track to play for Durham against Worcestershire on May 8 and against Kent on May 15, as well as potentially featuring for England Lions against South Africa A in late May. The incident occurred when Stokes was struck in the face by a ball, an event he described as 'pretty nasty' but acknowledged could have been much worse.
Stokes stated, 'I copped one straight in the face. Just a couple of inches one way or the other, I might not be here doing this interview, if I didn't turn my head round.' Despite the setback, Stokes is expected to lead England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lord's. He also addressed speculation about his relationship with head coach Brendon McCullum, saying that differences of opinion are a natural and necessary part of a healthy 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Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still to be determined.