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

England Test captain Ben Stokes is on track to make a comeback in May, following a 'lucky' escape from a serious training accident. Stokes suffered a broken right cheekbone and other facial injuries after being hit by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players in February. He underwent surgery and is now targeting a return to play for Durham in County Championship matches against Worcestershire on May 8 and Kent on May 15. Stokes may also feature for England Lions against South Africa A later in May, ahead of the first Test of the summer against New Zealand on June 4. In an interview with the ECB, Stokes reflected on the accident, saying, 'It was pretty nasty, but probably the best result of a bad situation.' He added, 'I had pretty major facial surgery, but I've got out quite lucky.' The injury set back Stokes' preparations by about a month, but he has been working to get back on track. Stokes is expected to lead England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lord's, as they look to bounce back from their 4-1 Ashes defeat. He has also dismissed suggestions that he and head coach Brendon McCullum are not aligned, saying, 'When you're in a position of leadership with someone else, if anyone thinks you're always going to agree on everything, then it's just impossible.' Stokes emphasized the importance of debate and discussion in healthy and successful sporting relationships. Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand. The severity of the injury is not yet clear, and it is too early to assess his participation for England this summer.