‘I might not be here’: Ben Stokes ‘lucky to be alive’ after freak injury scare

Ben Stokes has revealed he feels “quite lucky” to be alive after a terrifying training incident left him with a broken cheekbone, underlining just how close he came to a far more serious outcome. The all-rounder was struck flush on the face by a cricket ball during a net session while coaching academy players at Durham in February, an accident he now describes as “pretty nasty” but, in hindsight, fortunate.

“I copped one straight in the face,” Stokes said, reflecting on the moment. “Just a couple of inches one way or the other, I might not be here doing this interview.” The 34-year-old underwent major facial surgery after the blow, admitting the damage underneath the cheekbone was severe. Yet, despite the seriousness of the injury, Stokes maintained that he had escaped a worst-case scenario. “All things considered… I’ve got out quite lucky. So pretty thankful for that,” he added, calling it the “best result of a bad situation.”

Road to recovery and renewed focus ahead of Tests

The incident disrupted his preparations for the season, delaying his return to action by over a month. Stokes acknowledged the setback forced him to “go back to the drawing board” and rebuild his fitness plan ahead of England’s busy Test summer. Now nearing full recovery, he is expected to feature in County Championship matches before leading England against New Zealand at Lord’s on June 4. “It was a pretty scary situation… thankfully still here and everything’s all right,” he said.

Beyond his injury, Stokes also addressed speculation around his working relationship with Brendon McCullum following England’s 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia. Dismissing talk of a rift as a “massive overstatement,” Stokes emphasised that differences in approach are natural in leadership roles. While their dynamic may “look a little bit different” going forward, he reaffirmed their shared goal of building a winning team.

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As England reset ahead of a crucial home season, Stokes’ perspective — shaped by both physical adversity and leadership challenges — highlights a renewed focus on resilience, adaptability, and long-term success.