Ben Stokes Undergoes Surgery After Nets Injury

England Test captain Ben Stokes has undergone facial surgery after being struck by a cricket ball during a practice session.

The 34-year-old all-rounder shared images on social media last week showing visible swelling and bruising around his eye, along with a cut on his cheek and a bandage on his nose. In one post, he added a light-hearted remark, saying supporters should see the condition of the cricket ball.

On Tuesday, Stokes posted another update from hospital, confirming that the procedure was successful. “May not look like it but the surgery was a success,” he wrote, reassuring fans.

Reports suggest the incident occurred during a nets session. Stokes was reportedly not batting or bowling at the time but was standing beside the nets when the ball struck him.

The injury comes shortly after England’s 4–1 Ashes series defeat to Australia. Despite the setback, Stokes has previously expressed his desire to continue leading the Test side. However, his leadership is currently under review by the England and Wales Cricket Board.

Stokes has not featured in England’s white-ball squad since the 2023 ODI World Cup and is not part of the ongoing T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

His next possible appearance could be in county cricket for Durham before England’s home Test season begins. England are scheduled to face New Zealand at Lord’s on June 4, a date that also marks Stokes’ 35th birthday.

No official timeline has been announced regarding his full recovery. Further updates are expected once medical assessments are completed.

For now, the England captain has confirmed that the surgery went well and is focusing on recovery.