England Test captain Ben Stokes is planning to make his return to cricket in May, following a 'lucky' escape from a serious training accident. Stokes suffered a broken cheekbone and other facial injuries when he was hit by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players in February. After undergoing surgery, Stokes is now on track to play for Durham in two County Championship matches, against Worcestershire on May 8 and against Kent on May 15. He 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.
Stokes described the incident as 'pretty nasty' but expressed gratitude for the relatively positive outcome, considering the severity of the accident. The England captain is expected to lead his team in the first Test of the summer and has dismissed suggestions of a rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, emphasizing the importance of debate and discussion in 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 Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still to be determined.