Ben Stokes: England Test captain has surgery on broken cheek

England Test captain Ben Stokes says he has had successful surgery on the broken cheek he sustained when hit by a ball while coaching Durham’s academy.

Stokes, 34, was injured last week as he worked with youngsters at his county.

It is understood he was struck by a ball hit by a batter as he stood beside the nets.

The all-rounder posted a photograph from hospital of his swollen face on Instagram on Tuesday with the caption: «May not look like it but the surgery was a success.»

It is not yet known when Stokes can return to cricket.

He will be part of England Lions’ coaching staff for the development side’s series against Pakistan Shaheens in the United Arab Emirates next month.

England’s next Test is against New Zealand on 4 June, the start of a three-match series.

Stokes has not played since the conclusion of the Ashes in Sydney on 8 January.

He suffered an adductor injury on the penultimate day of the series, which England lost 4-1, resulting in significant criticism of the team’s performances, preparation and culture.