Ben Stokes Returns to County Championship with Two Wickets for Durham

Lancashire's Keaton Jennings struck a resilient century (115) as they reached 350 for 9 on day one of their County Championship clash against Durham. Ben Stokes, making his first County Championship appearance for Durham in almost two years, bowled 17 overs and claimed two wickets for 70 runs.

Jennings and Luke Wells (46) provided Lancashire with a solid start, putting on 87 for the first wicket. However, Durham fought back with three wickets in quick succession, including Stokes' dismissal of Josh Bohannon.

Jennings continued to anchor the Lancashire innings, reaching his century off 137 balls. He was eventually dismissed by Matt Parkinson, caught at mid-on. Saqib Mahmood (40 not out) provided some late impetus for Lancashire, hitting two fours and two sixes.

Durham's bowlers toiled hard on a pitch that offered little assistance. Ben Raine was the pick of the attack, taking 3 for 67. Ollie Robinson and Scott Borthwick also bowled well, but were unlucky not to pick up wickets.

Durham will be hoping to make further inroads into the Lancashire batting on day two. The pitch is expected to flatten out, which could make batting easier. However, Stokes' return to bowling fitness will be a major boost for Durham, who will be looking to him to make a significant contribution with both bat and ball.

Tags: #CountyChampionship, #Lancashire, #Durham, #BenStokes, #KeatonJennings