England Test captain Ben Stokes prepares to make his first County Championship appearance in two years as Durham faces Lancashire starting Friday. Stokes, who last played a Championship match for Durham in May 2022, is slated to feature in the Division One contest at Stanley Park in Blackpool.

The 32-year-old all-rounder is focusing on regaining his fitness for England's upcoming Test series against West Indies and Sri Lanka, opting out of the T20 World Cup squad for the tournament in the West Indies and the USA next month.

After undergoing knee surgery, Stokes returned to action during England's tour of India, playing all five Tests. However, his bowling was limited to just five overs throughout the series, all in the final Test.

In front of the vital Test match series for England, Stokes' return to County Championship cricket underlines his dedication to regain his full fitness and form. His participation will certainly strengthen Durham's lineup and provide excellent preparation for the upcoming Test matches against west indies and Sri Lanka.

Watch The Great Ben Stokes' Return

"We're looking to kickstart our season and we're looking forward to welcoming England captain Ben Stokes back into our team for the first time - it will be absolutely awesome," Campbell told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"I suggest if you've got a few days over the weekend you get down to Blackpool and watch the great Ben Stokes return for Durham.

"Players always want to play against the best players in the competition. To have one of those players in our own team to show us the way, his experiences, it's unbelievable.

"Suddenly, there's an air of excitement around the place just because he walks in the room." - he also added