While England grapples with Test disappointment against New Zealand, Ben Stokes is finding his rhythm on the county circuit—bowling with real pace for Durham and reminding everyone why he remains one of cricket's most dynamic all-rounders.

Absent from England's second Test at the Oval, Stokes put his downtime to productive use, delivering 15 overs for his home county with genuine pace and purpose, punctuated by a crucial breakthrough. It's the kind of silver lining many players find when stepping back from international pressure: a chance to rediscover form and confidence in familiar surroundings. Read the full story →

Today's takeaway: Sometimes the best way back to peak performance is a temporary step sideways—and Stokes is making every ball count.