England captain Ben Stokes cleared to return after severe facial injury
England Test captain Ben Stokes has been medically cleared to return to competitive cricket following a severe facial injury sustained in February.
The 34-year-old suffered a broken right cheekbone after being struck by a ball while coaching Durham academy players.
He subsequently underwent surgery to repair the extensive damage and has now confirmed his impending comeback.
Targeting domestic return before international duties
Taking to social media, the all-rounder announced that specialists had finally approved his return to action.
“Doc gave the all clear. Eyes good. See ya soon,”
Stokes posted on Instagram.
The influential skipper is now targeting two County Championship fixtures for Durham next month to build vital match fitness.
These domestic appearances will serve as crucial preparation ahead of a demanding international summer.
A narrow escape from serious tragedy
The initial training ground incident sparked significant concern regarding the player’s long-term health and vision.
Speaking earlier this month, the World Cup winner admitted the freak accident could have been fatal.
“I copped one straight in the face,” he explained in an interview with the England and Wales Cricket Board.
“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.”
Lord’s Test match on the horizon
England’s red-ball leader is now firmly on track to captain his country in the first Test against New Zealand.
The opening match of the highly anticipated summer series is scheduled to begin at Lord’s on June 4.
His commanding presence will provide a major psychological boost to the national side as they look to assert dominance on home soil.
