Ben Stokes has revealed he feels “pretty lucky” to be alive after a terrifying training incident left him with a fractured cheekbone, underlining how close he came to a much more serious outcome. The all-rounder was hit in the face by a cricket ball during a game at the nets while coaching Durham academy players in February, an accident he now describes as “pretty ugly” but fortunate in hindsight.“I hit one right in the face,” Stokes said, reflecting on the moment. “Just a few inches one way or another, I might not be doing this interview here. The 34-year-old underwent extensive facial surgery following the punch and admitted the damage below his cheekbone was severe. Still, despite the seriousness of the injury, Stokes claimed he escaped the worst-case scenario. “All things considered … I got lucky. I’m pretty grateful for that,” he added, calling it “the best outcome of a bad situation.”A road to recovery and renewed focus before testsThe incident disrupted his preparation for the season and delayed his return to action by more than a month. Stokes admitted the setback forced him to “go back to the drawing board” and rebuild his fitness plan ahead of England’s busy Test summer. He is now nearing full recovery and is expected to feature in the County Championship games before leading England against New Zealand at Lord’s on June 4. “It was a pretty scary situation … luckily he’s still here and everything’s fine,” he said.
Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes (AP Photo)
Apart from his injury, Stokes also dealt with speculation about his working relationship with Brendon McCullum following England’s 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia. Stokes dismissed talk of a rift as “massive exaggeration” and stressed that differences in approach are natural in leadership roles. While their dynamic may “look a little different” going forward, he reaffirmed their shared goal of building a winning team.
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As England reset ahead of a crucial domestic season, Stokes’ perspective – shaped by both physical adversity and leadership challenges – highlights a renewed focus on resilience, adaptability and long-term success.
