England Test captain Ben Stokes is on track to return to cricket in May after a 'lucky' escape from a training accident that left him with a broken cheekbone and other facial injuries. Stokes, who was hit in the face by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players, underwent surgery and is now recovering. He plans to play for Durham in two County Championship matches and potentially feature for England Lions against South Africa A.
Stokes acknowledged that the incident was 'pretty nasty' but expressed gratitude for the positive outcome. He also addressed rumors of a rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, stating that differences of opinion are a natural and necessary part of 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 Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still unclear.