Stokes was last seen on a cricket field on 7 January, selecting over the bones of England’s 4-1 sequence defeat in Australia on the finish of a chaotic and controversial tour.
Simply over a month later, in a session with Durham’s academy, the Check captain was struck by a ball hit by a batter whereas he was stood beside the nets, inflicting a fractured cheekbone and extreme injury to his face.
That required surgical procedure which has delayed his involvement within the begin of the home season, with most of England’s different Check gamers having already featured in Championship video games for his or her counties.
Stokes has not performed a red-ball sport for Durham for nearly two years, however can be concerned because the north east county seems to construct on their robust begin to the season in Division Two.
And Campbell doesn’t imagine selecting Stokes ought to simply be about gearing him up for the Check summer time.
“We have made it very clear, Stokesy is right here as a member of our crew to assist win a sport of cricket for Durham, to not prepare for England,” the Australian advised the Press Affiliation.
“I am positive each England fan is delighted to see him again however we’re simply completely satisfied to see considered one of our mates once more.
“He holds himself to such excessive requirements. He’ll be the primary into fielding drills, throwing balls at folks and hitting loads himself.
“We have already spoken about Ben taking part in, the way it brings extra media and extra eyes on a sport.
“It provides one other layer, not of stress however of accountability to maintain your personal requirements excessive. I am actually having fun with having him round.”
