'I might not be here' - Stokes on being hit in face by ball

Ben Stokes, the captain of England's cricket team, recounted a frightening incident from February where he was struck in the face by a cricket ball while training with academy players. The impact caused a broken cheekbone, necessitating significant facial surgery that has kept him out of action until May. Stokes emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that a slight difference in the point of impact could have led to a much more dire outcome.

Stokes is scheduled to make his return to competitive cricket for Durham in the County Championship on May 8, ahead of England's first Test match of the summer against New Zealand on June 4. He also briefly addressed recent team performance and an internal review following the Ashes series, indicating a renewed focus on winning and relentless training.