Durham’s skipper Ben Stokes returned to County Championship action after a broken cheekbone forced a season‑long pause. Opening the bowling against Worcestershire, the 34‑year‑old claimed 2 wickets for 40 runs from 14 overs, signalling a new‑ball option for the England squad.

Stokes’ return came after an accidental face blow in pre‑season, requiring reconstructive surgery on a badly broken cheekbone. Specialists cleared him, allowing him to fill a pace gap left by Kemar Roach’s injury and teammate Matthew Potts’ absence. Durham won the toss, sending Worcestershire to bat at New Road.

On day one, Stokes rattled opener Daniel Lategan on his eighth delivery, then added a second wicket after a rain delay, dismissing Brett D'Oliveira off his first ball. Worcestershire finished 199‑7, but Durham’s bowlers kept pressure, hinting at a competitive campaign ahead.

Stokes’ performance also offers England’s selectors a fresh option for the new‑ball attack against New Zealand. With the Ashes still fresh in memory, Durham’s captain proves he can bowl at a level after injury. The county’s win shows the squad’s depth is improving, a welcome boost for the national side before the Test series starts.