England Test captain Ben Stokes is planning to make his comeback in May after a 'lucky' escape from a serious injury during a training session. Stokes suffered a broken cheekbone and other facial injuries when he was struck by a cricket ball while coaching Durham's academy players. The incident occurred in February and required surgery. Stokes is now on track to play for Durham in May, with matches against Worcestershire and Kent, as well as a potential appearance for England Lions against South Africa A.
He expressed gratitude for the positive outcome, considering the severity of the incident. 'It was pretty nasty, but probably the best result of a bad situation,' Stokes said in an interview. Stokes' injury has set back his preparations by about a month, but he is working to get ready for the Test summer. England is looking to bounce back from their 4-1 Ashes defeat, and Stokes is expected to lead the team in their first Test against New Zealand at Lord's.
Stokes also addressed rumors of a rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, stating that differences of opinion are a natural part of a healthy sporting relationship. 'When you're in a position of leadership, you're not always going to agree on everything,' Stokes said.
'To me, that isn't a healthy environment for sport.' Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still unclear.