England receive huge Test boost as Ben Stokes makes instant bowling impact on return

England’s preparations for the home Test summer received a massive lift after captain Ben Stokes marked his long-awaited return to competitive cricket with an instant impact for Durham in the County Championship.

Back in action for the first time since the Ashes, Stokes needed only eight deliveries to remind everyone of his value with the ball. Handed the new ball against Worcestershire at New Road, the England skipper struck early when Daniel Lategan edged behind to wicketkeeper Ollie Robinson after being undone by extra bounce and sharp pace outside off stump.

It was the perfect comeback moment for Stokes, whose return had been delayed after suffering a badly broken cheekbone earlier this year. The all-rounder required reconstructive surgery following an accidental blow to the face and had initially targeted the start of the county season for his comeback. After finally receiving clearance from specialists, Stokes wasted little time in making his presence felt.

Durham immediately turned to their talisman in the absence of rested England seamer Matthew Potts and injured West Indies quick Kemar Roach. Stokes responded with a lively opening spell that carried all the familiar signs — aggression, intensity and steep bounce that repeatedly thudded into Robinson’s gloves.

His first spell produced figures of 1 for 14 from four overs, but the numbers only told part of the story. Stokes looked lean, sharp and fully engaged, extracting life from the surface and asking questions of the Worcestershire top order from the outset. He returned before lunch for another four-over burst, conceding just 10 more runs as the hosts reached 93 for four.

The sight of Stokes charging in with the new ball will only add intrigue to England’s plans ahead of a crucial Test summer. England have been searching for answers at the top of their bowling attack following inconsistent returns during the Ashes, with Ollie Robinson, Sam Cook and Matt Fisher all emerging as possible options.

But Stokes’ return could yet change the conversation entirely.

For years, the England captain has carefully managed his workload because of persistent injury concerns. Shoulder trouble last summer and a groin issue during the Ashes once again highlighted the physical toll his all-action style places on his body. Yet whenever England have needed inspiration, Stokes has repeatedly stepped forward.

Despite battling fitness setbacks, the 34-year-old was England’s standout bowler throughout 2025, taking 33 wickets at an average of 23.12. More importantly, he consistently provided breakthroughs when matches drifted and offered the kind of attacking edge few others in the side could replicate.