England Test captain Ben Stokes is planning to make his return to cricket in May, following a serious training accident that left him with a broken cheekbone and other facial injuries. The incident occurred in February while Stokes was coaching at Durham's academy, and he has since undergone surgery. Despite the setback, Stokes is on track to play for Durham in two County Championship matches, against Worcestershire on May 8 and Kent on May 15, as well as potentially featuring for England Lions against South Africa A later that month. Stokes reflected on the accident, saying it was a 'lucky escape' and that he is 'thankful' to have avoided more severe consequences.
He also expressed his commitment to leading England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand on June 4. Stokes dismissed any 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 Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still to be determined.