England Test captain Ben Stokes has resumed training with Durham following a shoulder injury, though concerns remain over his capacity to participate fully in the upcoming Ashes series in Australia.
The all-rounder, who sustained the injury during July’s drawn Test against India at Old Trafford, has started batting in the nets. According to his county coach, Stokes underwent a lengthy session recently, indicating positive progress with the bat. However, his bowling workload is being managed cautiously as part of a gradual rehabilitation plan.
While Stokes is expected to be available for the start of the Ashes on November 21 in Perth, doubts persist about his ability to feature in all five Tests. His coach highlighted the physical demands of back-to-back matches and the intensive preparation required, suggesting it may be challenging for the 34-year-old to maintain his role as a frontline all-rounder throughout the entire series.
Stokes is regarded as a critical component of England’s lineup, providing depth in batting and a genuine seam bowling option. His commitment to recovery and preparation has been widely praised, yet the cumulative toll of five Tests in quick succession raises legitimate questions about his durability.
In related team news, Durham’s pace bowler Mark Wood is also nearing a return from knee surgery, potentially bolstering both his county side and England’s fast-bowling reserves ahead of the tour.
