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

England Test captain Ben Stokes is on track to return to action in May after a 'lucky' escape from a serious facial 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 set to play for Durham in two County Championship matches in May, against Worcestershire and Kent, as well as a potential appearance for England Lions against South Africa A. The incident occurred when Stokes was struck in the face, just inches from a potentially more severe outcome. 'It was pretty nasty, but probably the best result of a bad situation,' Stokes said in an interview. 'I had major facial surgery, but I've got out quite lucky.' The injury initially set back Stokes' plans by about a month, but he has since revised his training schedule to be ready for the start of the Test summer. Stokes is expected to lead England in their first Test against New Zealand at Lord's, seeking to bounce back from the 4-1 Ashes defeat. He has also dismissed suggestions of a rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, emphasizing the importance of debate and discussion in a healthy sporting relationship. 'We agree 95 per cent of the time, but for the five per cent where we have different views, we talk it through,' Stokes said. Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still unclear.