Ben Stokes Aims for May Return After Narrowly Escaping Serious Injury

England Test captain Ben Stokes is set to return to action in May, following a 'lucky' escape from a serious facial injury sustained during a training accident. Stokes, who suffered a broken cheekbone and other facial injuries, has undergone surgery and is on track to play for Durham in two County Championship matches. He also hopes to feature for England Lions against South Africa A later in May, ahead of the first Test of the summer against New Zealand. Stokes reflected on the incident, saying it was 'pretty nasty' but he felt fortunate to have avoided more severe consequences. The injury had initially set back his preparations by about a month, but he has since devised a plan to get ready for the new season. Stokes is expected to lead England in their first Test of the summer and has dismissed 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 Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still to be determined.