England's Test captain, Ben Stokes, is set for a three-month recovery period after a recurring hamstring injury forced him out of action.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that the star all-rounder will undergo surgery in January.

The injury rules him out of the SA20 league and leaves his return timeline aligned with England's Test match against Zimbabwe on May 22, 2025. Stokes re-injured his left hamstring during the third Test against New Zealand in December. Let's find out all the details of the matter.

The recurrence of the tearinitially sustained in August during The Hundredwas confirmed after a scan upon his return to England. While Stokes managed an impressive bowling workload during the series, the injury has highlighted the physical demands placed on the 33-year-old in his dual role as captain and all-rounder.

Recovery Process

Hamstring surgery for complete tears typically involves reattaching the tendons to the pelvic bone using sutures. The recovery process is extensive, beginning with a period on crutches for two to three weeks, followed by a gradual rehabilitation program to restore strength and mobility. Physical therapy plays a critical role in ensuring a full recovery, with high-level athletes like Stokes requiring tailored "return to sport" protocols.

Post-surgery, Stokes is expected to function normally within three months but may need an additional three months to regain full match fitness and resume competitive cricket. His rehabilitation will focus on building resilience to prevent further injuries, particularly given his history of workload-related setbacks.

Stokes' unavailability is a significant blow for England, especially as they look to bounce back from recent Test defeats and prepare for the Zimbabwe series. His leadership and all-round abilities have been pivotal, as demonstrated by his performances in recent series despite battling injuries.

The injury also impacts Stokes' franchise commitments, notably his £800,000 contract with MI Cape Town in the SA20, which starts in January. For now, England's captain is focused on recovery, promising to return with renewed vigour.

As fans eagerly await his comeback, Stokes' journey underscores the resilience and physical toll required at the highest levels of sport. His return in May will be keenly anticipated as England aims to reassert dominance in Test cricket.