Ben Stokes Back in Training Ahead of Ashes Series

Photo: Reuters

England cricket captain Ben Stokes has returned to training after recovering from a shoulder injury. Durham head coach Ryan Campbell confirmed that Stokes is "back in training" and will be ready for this winter's Ashes series in Australia.

Stokes, 34, missed the fifth and final Test against India at The Oval due to the shoulder problem he suffered during the draw at Old Trafford in July. At that time, it was expected that he would be out for six to seven weeks.

Now, Stokes has started batting in the nets with Durham, his county side. He is gradually rebuilding his fitness to be fully ready for the Ashes.

Stokes’ Progress

• Coach Ryan Campbell gave updates on Stokes’ recovery:
• Stokes has been hitting balls in practice sessions.
• Scott Borthwick, along with coach Will Gidman, helped Stokes in a nearly two-hour session.
• His batting is going well, but bowling will take more time.
• He is being treated carefully and steadily to avoid any setbacks.
• Campbell told BBC Radio 5 Live, "The batting side of things is going very well, but the bowling will take a lot longer. He is being treated very steadily."

Mark Wood Also Close to Return

Another England player, fast bowler Mark Wood, is also nearing a return. Wood, 35, has not played since February because of a knee injury he sustained at the Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

Wood had hoped to return for the fifth Test against India but faced a setback. He also missed England’s white-ball matches against South Africa and Ireland.

Campbell said that Wood is now “extremely close to playing” again for Durham. He added, “I've got my fingers crossed that Wood plays for us next week. If that happens, it's not only great for Durham but also for England.”

Ashes Series in Australia

The first Test of the Ashes series will start in Perth on 21 November 2025. Stokes’ return to training is encouraging news for England fans, as he is one of the key players for the team. His experience as an all-rounder will be valuable for both batting and bowling, although bowling might take more time to regain full fitness.

• Similarly, if Mark Wood returns to play, England will gain a fast and experienced bowler, strengthening their squad ahead of the series.
• Importance of Recovery and Training
• Both players are taking a careful approach to avoid further injuries:
• Stokes’ shoulder recovery is being managed slowly, starting with batting and gradually moving to bowling.
• Wood is recovering from knee surgery and is expected to ease back into competitive cricket.
• Campbell’s updates suggest that both players are motivated and working hard to be fit for Durham and England.
• Ben Stokes is back in training after a shoulder injury.
• He missed the last Test against India but is preparing for the Ashes.
• Mark Wood is close to returning after a long knee injury.
• First Ashes Test begins on 21 November in Perth, Australia.

England fans are hopeful that the return of these experienced players will strengthen the team.Coach Ryan Campbell emphasized the careful management of the players' fitness to ensure long-term performance and safety. Both Stokes and Wood are expected to play important roles for England and their county side, Durham, in the upcoming cricket season.