Ben Stokes Aims for May Return After Narrowly Escaping Serious Injury

England Test captain Ben Stokes is on track to return to action in May after a 'lucky' escape from a serious training accident. Stokes was hit in the face by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players, resulting in a broken right cheekbone and other facial injuries. Following surgery, he is set to play for Durham in two County Championship matches, against Worcestershire and Kent, as well as potentially featuring for England Lions against South Africa A. Stokes expressed gratitude for the outcome, saying it could have been much worse if he hadn't turned his head. He is expected to lead England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lord's, and has dismissed suggestions of a rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, emphasizing the importance of debate and discussion in their working relationship. Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity and potential impact on his participation for England this summer still unclear.