England Test captain Ben Stokes returns to competitive cricket with Durham after being omitted from England’s Test squad linked to a nightclub incident. Multiple reports say Stokes is named in Durham’s 15-man squad for an upcoming County Championship match, and he trains with the county while remaining under an ongoing investigation. One report notes Stokes is in contention to play in the County Championship, suggesting he could be available depending on the next steps of the England review process. Other coverage adds that Stokes is later withdrawn from the remainder of Durham’s County Championship fixture against Northamptonshire, with the timing presented as an indication he may be recalled to the England Test team ahead of England’s next match. One outlet attributes the withdrawal to a request from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), while others frame it as preparation for England’s return. Overall, the reports converge on Stokes’ move from the England Test setup to a Durham role in the County Championship, alongside uncertainty over his England availability while investigations and selection decisions continue.