Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson returned to County Championship action after a nightclub incident that saw them dropped from England. Stokes claimed 1–60 in 18 overs for Durham against Northamptonshire, while Atkinson impressed for Surrey with 2–33 at Glamorgan, an economy of 2.2 in a match that saw Durham lose by 50 runs.

Both bowlers were cleared by the ECB after investigations, and are eyed for the final Test at Trent Bridge. Stokes’ single wicket came amid four dropped catches and a 388–6 Northants total, while Atkinson’s spell included five maidens and eight runs from eight overs, setting up a tight chase for Durham’s season opener.

Rehan Ahmed added depth to England’s camp, taking two wickets in eight balls against Leicestershire and scoring 58 not out in the same match. Durham, however, will feel the sting of missed chances as opener Ricardo Vasconcelos stayed unbeaten at 181 after four balls into Stokes’ spell, while Northants surged to 388–6 late in the day.

With the third Test set for June 25–29, selectors will weigh the players’ recent form against the need for stability. Stokes, fresh from a first‑class return, and Atkinson, who bowled economically, could reshape England’s lineup, while Durham faces a challenging season ahead and seeks to rebuild confidence.