England cricket captain Ben Stokes has opened up about a terrifying net session incident that left him counting his blessings. The star all-rounder revealed he "might not be here" had a cricket ball struck him just inches differently during a practice with academy players at Durham in February.

"It was a pretty scary situation," Stokes admitted. "I copped one straight in the face. Just a couple of inches one way or the other, I might not be here doing this interview." The impact resulted in a broken cheekbone, requiring what he described as "pretty major facial surgery."

Despite the severity, Stokes maintained a resilient perspective, stating, "I've got out quite lucky. Thankfully still here and everything's all right." The injury has sidelined him since England's Ashes defeat in January, with a targeted return for Durham in the County Championship on May 8th.

In a broader reflection, Stokes addressed the team's direction under the leadership of himself and coach Brendon McCullum. While dismissing rumors of a rift, he emphasized a shift in focus from the initial "Bazball" philosophy of bringing enjoyment back to the team. "Now it is about everything we do is to win, being relentless," Stokes stated, acknowledging that much of the criticism during the Ashes tour was warranted.

This brush with serious injury underscores the fine margins in professional sport and the physical demands placed on athletes at the highest level. Stokes's road to recovery will be closely watched by fans eager to see the influential leader return to the field with his trademark competitive fire fully intact.