- England captain Ben Stokes made his first competitive appearance for Durham since the Ashes, taking the new ball against Worcestershire.
- His return to county cricket was delayed after he sustained a badly broken cheekbone, requiring reconstructive surgery.
- Stokes quickly made an impact, dismissing South African-born batter Daniel Lategan with extra pace and bounce in his eighth delivery.
- He bowled an initial spell of four overs for 14 runs, looking in good condition, and returned for a second spell before lunch.
- His performance raises the intriguing possibility of him taking on a new-ball bowling role for England, despite previous injury concerns and his age.
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