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 while Stokes was coaching at Durham's academy in February, and he has since undergone surgery. Despite the setback, Stokes is on track to play for Durham in two County Championship matches in May, as well as potentially featuring for England Lions against South Africa A.
Stokes described the incident as 'pretty nasty' but acknowledged that the outcome could have been much worse. He expressed gratitude for the positive outcome and is now focused on preparing for the Test summer, which begins with a series against New Zealand on June 4.
Stokes 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 Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still to be determined.