England test captain Stokes returns to action after facial surgery
Cricket - The Ashes - Australia v England - Fifth Test - Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney, Australia - January 7, 2026 England's Ben Stokes reacts REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/File Photo
May 7 : England test captain Ben Stokes is set to play for the first time since suffering a fractured cheekbone while training in February when his team Durham visit Worcestershire in the County Championship from Friday.
Media reports said Stokes was struck by a ball during a net session, sustaining bruises, cuts and a broken cheekbone. He underwent facial surgery soon after.
The 34-year-old has now completed his recovery from the surgery, Durham said in a statement on Thursday.
Stokes last appeared for England against Australia in January. England play their next test against New Zealand at Lord's from June 4.
