Ben Stokes Takes Early Wicket in Durham Return

England captain Ben Stokes marked his return to competitive cricket with an early wicket for Durham against Worcestershire at New Road on Friday, opening the bowling in his first County Championship appearance in two years.

The 34-year-old allrounder dismissed South African-born batter Daniel Lategan after just eight deliveries. Lategan, beaten by extra pace and bounce, edged a flashing shot outside off stump to wicketkeeper Ollie Robinson. Stokes bowled a four-over opening spell, conceding 14 runs while generating sharp lift from the pitch. Durham opted to use him up front with regular new-ball bowler Matthew Potts rested and West Indian seamer Kemar Roach injured.

Stokes had planned to resume county duties at the start of the season but suffered a freak injury in February when a stray ball struck his face during a net session coaching academy players. The incident fractured his cheekbone, requiring reconstructive surgery and delaying his comeback until specialists cleared him.

His return follows England's disappointing Ashes series in Australia, where a groin strain hampered him in the final Test. Stokes also missed last summer's series decider against India due to a shoulder...