Stokes, Carse Miss Early County Championship Games

England cricket captain Ben Stokes and bowler Brydon Carse will be absent from the early County Championship matches due to ongoing recoveries from their injuries. Stokes is working diligently on his rehabilitation following a hamstring surgery, with hopes of returning for England's Test matches starting with Zimbabwe in May. Despite his absence from domestic cricket, Stokes is committed to regaining full fitness ahead of a busy Test season against India and Australia. Similarly, Carse is managing a foot injury that disrupted his participation in the ICC Champions Trophy, but has become a key player for England, taking 27 wickets across recent Test matches. Durham's head coach Ryan Campbell emphasized that no risks will be taken with their recoveries, and any appearance by either player in early County games would be a bonus. The focus remains on ensuring both are fit for England's upcoming Test series.