England Test captain Ben Stokes is set to return to cricket in May after a freak training accident left him with a broken cheekbone and other facial injuries. Stokes, who was coaching at Durham's academy, underwent surgery and is now on track to play for Durham in two County Championship matches.
He also hopes to feature for England Lions against South Africa A in late May. Stokes said the incident was 'pretty nasty' but he felt 'lucky' to have escaped more serious harm. He is expected to lead England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lord's. Stokes also dismissed rumors of a rift with head coach Brendon McCullum, saying they have a healthy and successful working relationship despite occasional differences of opinion.
Meanwhile, England fast bowler Brydon Carse has withdrawn from the IPL due to an injury to his bowling hand, with the severity of the injury still unclear.