Ben Stokes Returns to Training with Durham Ahead of Ashes
Durham coach Ryan Campbell confirms England captain Ben Stokes has resumed training after shoulder surgery and is on track for the upcoming Ashes series in Australia.
Durham head coach Ryan Campbell confirms that England captain Ben Stokes has resumed training after recovering from a shoulder injury and is expected to be fit for this winter’s Ashes tour in Australia.
Stokes, 34, sat out the final Test against India at The Oval in July due to a shoulder issue sustained during the Old Trafford draw. Following a six-week recovery plan, he is now back in the nets at Durham, focusing first on batting drills.
"In the past week, he’s had a strong hitting session, with Scott Borthwick and coach Will Gidman feeding balls for nearly two hours," Campbell told INLIBER Radio 5 Live. "The batting side looks solid, while his bowling workload will be increased gradually."
Fast bowler Mark Wood is also nearing a return after knee surgery, Campbell added. "I’m hopeful he’ll play for us next week, which would be a boost for both Durham and England."
Key to England’s Ashes Chances
Campbell, a former Australian wicketkeeper, believes England’s success in the Ashes hinges on Stokes playing all five Tests at peak performance. "He deepens the batting line-up and strengthens the bowling attack as a third seamer. His work ethic rivals any player I’ve seen," he said.
England last drew an Ashes series 2-2 on home soil in 2023. The first Test begins in Perth on 21 November.
Stokes’ fitness and form will be crucial to England’s Ashes hopes, with his all-round skills bolstering both batting and bowling options.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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