England captain Ben Stokes made an immediate impact on his return to County Championship cricket, taking an early wicket after being handed the new ball for Durham against Worcestershire.
Return After Injury
Stokes had planned to feature from the start of the season but was delayed after suffering a broken cheekbone in an accidental blow to the face, which required reconstructive surgery. Now fully cleared by specialists, he made his first Championship appearance in two years at New Road.
Early Breakthrough
Durham captain Alex Lees tossed the new ball to Stokes, and it took the Test skipper just eight deliveries to strike. South African-born batter Daniel Lategan was beaten by extra pace and bounce as he flashed outside off, edging to wicketkeeper Ollie Robinson. Stokes’s initial spell lasted four overs, conceding 14 runs, but he looked lean, quick, and extracted significant lift from the pitch.
Potential New-Ball Role
England are seeking a new-ball bowler for the summer after disappointing Ashes returns, with contenders including Ollie Robinson, Sam Cook, and Matt Fisher. However, Stokes’s performance raises the possibility he could take on a role he has previously resisted. At 34, with recent injury issues, it may seem a long shot, but Stokes was England’s leading wicket-taker in 2025 with 33 wickets at 23.12.
