England captain Ben Stokes delivers ‘see ya soon’ message after being cleared to make return from injury

Ben Stokes has announced he has been given the all-clear to return to cricket.

The England captain suffered a broken right cheekbone and other facial injuries after he was hit in the face by a ball in an accident while he was coaching Durham’s academy players in February.

Stokes underwent surgery and targeted playing in two County Championship games next month for Durham.

The 34-year-old gave an update on his recovery on Instagram, writing: “Doc gave the all clear. Eyes good. See ya soon @countychampionship @durhamcricket”

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Nasty

Speaking about the incident earlier this month in an in-house interview with the England and Wales Cricket Board, Stokes revealed the incident could have been a lot worse, saying: “I copped one straight in the face.

“Pretty nasty but, funnily, probably the best result of a bad situation, to be honest.

“Just a couple of inches one way or the other, I might not be here doing this interview if I didn’t turn my head round.”

Stokes is expected to be ready to lead England in their first Test of the summer against New Zealand at Lord’s beginning on June 4.

PICTURE: Robbie Stephenson/PA

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