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 injury sustained during a training accident. Stokes was hit in the face by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players in February, resulting in a broken right cheekbone and other facial injuries. Following surgery, Stokes is expected to play for Durham in two County Championship matches in May, against Worcestershire and Kent, as well as potentially featuring for England Lions against South Africa A. The England captain reflected on the incident, saying it was 'pretty nasty' but he felt fortunate to have avoided more severe consequences. Stokes' return to action is ahead of the first Test of the summer against New Zealand on June 4. He also addressed suggestions of a rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, stating that differences of opinion are a natural and healthy part of 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 Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still to be determined.