England’s preparations for the domestic Test summer have received a huge boost after captain Ben Stokes marked his long-awaited return to competitive cricket with an immediate impact against Durham in the County Championship.
Back in action for the first time since the AshesIt took just eight deliveries for Stokes to remind everyone of his value with the ball. Handed the new ball against Worcestershire at New Road, the England captain struck early when Daniel Lategan fell behind keeper Ollie Robinson after being undone by extra bounce and a burst of pace outside the off-stump.
It was a perfect comeback moment for Stokes, whose comeback was delayed after he suffered a badly broken cheekbone earlier this year. The all-rounder required reconstructive surgery after an accidental blow to the face and initially targeted the start of the district season for his comeback. After finally getting the go-ahead from the specialists, Stokes wasted little time in making his presence felt.
Durham immediately turned to their talisman in the absence of rested England seamer Matthew Potts and injured West Indies quick Kemar Roach. Stokes responded with a lively opening spell that bore all the familiar hallmarks – aggression, intensity and sharp bounces that repeatedly slammed into Robinson’s gloves.
His first spell produced figures of 1 for 14 from four overs, but the numbers told only part of the story. Stokes looked lean, sharp and fully engaged, bringing the life out of the surface and asking questions of Worcestershire’s top order from the start. He returned before lunch for another run for four, conceding just 10 runs as the hosts reached 93 for four.
The sight of Stokes charging forward with the new ball will only add intrigue to England’s plans ahead of a crucial Test summer. England have been looking for answers at the top of their bowling attack after inconsistent returns during the Ashes, with Ollie Robinson, Sam Cook and Matt Fisher emerging as possible options.
But Stokes’ return could change the conversation entirely.
The England captain has carefully managed his workload over the years due to persistent injury concerns. Shoulder problems last summer and a groin problem during the Ashes have again highlighted the physical toll his all-action style will place on his body. However, whenever England needed inspiration, Stokes repeatedly stepped forward.
Despite his fitness setbacks, the 34-year-old was England’s best bowler throughout 2025, picking up 33 wickets at an average of 23.12. More importantly, he consistently provided breakthroughs when matches drifted, offering the kind of attacking edge that few other players could match.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
08 May 2026 18:26 IST
