Ben Stokes has revealed he feels “quite lucky” to survive a horrific training incident that left him with a broken cheekbone, highlighting how close he came to far more serious consequences. The all-rounder was hit in the face by a cricket ball during a nets session while coaching academy players in Durham in February, an accident he now describes as “very bad” but, in hindsight, fortunate.“I got a cut right in the face,” Stokes reflected on the moment. “Just a couple of inches one way or the other, I might not be doing this interview here.” The 34-year-old underwent major facial surgery after the blow, admitting the damage below his cheekbone was severe. Yet, despite the severity of the injury, Stokes maintained that he had avoided the worst. “All things considered… I’ve been very lucky. Very grateful for that,” he added, calling it “the best outcome of a bad situation”.Recovery path and new focus before the testThe incident disrupted his preparations for the season, delaying his return by more than a month. Stokes admitted the setback forced him to “go back to the drawing board” and revamp his fitness plan ahead of England’s busy Test summer. Now close to full recovery, he is expected to feature in the County Championship matches before leading England against New Zealand at Lord’s on June 4. “It was a pretty scary situation… thankfully it’s still here and everything is fine,” he said.
Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes (AP Photo)
In addition to his injury, Stokes also addressed speculation about his working relationship. Brendon McCullum After England’s 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia. Dismissing talk of a split as a “gross overstatement,” Stokes emphasized that differences in perspective are inherent in the role of leadership. While their dynamic “might look a little different” moving forward, he reaffirmed their shared goal of building a winning team.As England reset ahead of a crucial home season, Stokes’ approach – shaped by both physical difficulties and leadership challenges – highlights a renewed focus on resilience, adaptability and long-term success.
