England cricket captain Ben Stokes has been given the all-clear to return to the sport after suffering a serious facial injury during a coaching session in February. The 34-year-old all-rounder sustained a broken right cheekbone and other facial injuries when he was struck in the face by a cricket ball while working with Durham's academy players.
Recovery and Surgery
Stokes underwent surgery to repair the damage and has been targeting a return for two County Championship matches for Durham next month. Providing an update on his recovery via Instagram, Stokes wrote: 'Doc gave the all clear. Eyes good. See ya soon @countychampionship @durhamcricket.'
Reflection on the Incident
Speaking earlier this month in an interview with the England and Wales Cricket Board, Stokes revealed the severity of the accident. 'I copped one straight in the face,' he said. 'Pretty nasty but, funnily, probably the best result of a bad situation, to be honest. Just a couple of inches one way or the other, I might not be here doing this interview, if I didn't turn my head round.'
Upcoming Matches
Stokes is expected to be fit to lead England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lord's, which begins on June 4. His return will be a significant boost for the team as they prepare for a busy season.
