Ben Stokes returned to Durham County Cricket Club on Saturday, falling just five runs short of a maiden hundred with 95 off 118 balls against Northants. The 35‑year‑old smashed 18 fours, steering Durham from 30‑3 to a competitive total. His dismissal came immediately after tea, bowled by Harry Conway, and it also lifted Durham’s net‑run rate, keeping them in the hunt.

Stokes was dropped from England’s Test side after breaching the team’s midnight curfew following the first‑day victory over New Zealand, a sanction that also hit teammate Gus Atkinson. England now teeter on the brink of defeat in the second Test at The Oval, with Joe Root standing in as captain while Stokes watches the collapse from the pavilion as the bowlers struggle to contain the hosts.

Durham’s rescue innings highlighted what England lacks without its star all‑rounder, prompting speculation about Stokes’ future. Rumours of resignation or retirement swirl, yet selectors appear poised to reinstate him for the third Test at Trent Bridge. Unless the board reverses course, Stokes will likely lead England again, providing the firepower the side desperately needs against New Zealand. The coaching staff will hope his form translates.