England test captain Ben Stokes returns to action with Durham after facial surgery

England's Ben Stokes in action
England's Ben Stokes in actionAsanka Brendon Ratnayake / Reuters

England test captain ⁠Ben Stokes is set to play ‌for the first ‌time since suffering ‌a fractured cheekbone ‌while training in February ‌when his team Durham visit Worcestershire ‌in the County ⁠Championship ‌from Friday.

Media reports said ​Stokes was struck by a ​ball during a net session, sustaining ⁠bruises, ​cuts and a broken cheekbone. He underwent facial surgery soon ‌after.

The 34-year-old has now completed his recovery from the surgery, Durham said in a statement on Thursday.

Stokes last appeared for England ‌against Australia in ​January. England play ‌their next test against New Zealand at Lord's from June 4th.