BEN Stokes is determined to sign off from Durham duties today by helping them knock off 247 to beat Lancashire at Southport.

Stokes learned yesterday that he has been recalled to the England squad for the second Test starting at Old Trafford on Friday following his recovery from a knee operation.

“It was good to get the call,” he said. “I wasn't banking on being picked, even though I have proved my fitness here.

“The frustration was starting to build up because it took longer to get back to bowling than I had hoped. It was a relief to be able to run in and bowl here without any concerns.”

Stokes, who took three for 50 in 19.4 overs in Lancashire's second innings, believes the Southport pitch has changed since the first day.

“It has dried under the sun and it will be even drier tomorrow, so it will probably turn more. The pace and sideways movement has gone out of it for the seamers and I think we did a really good job to bowl them out.

“It was good to see Adam Hickey get a couple of wickets on his debut. He bowled nicely and certainly enjoyed his first one.

“He and Scott Borthwick got the odd ball to grip and bounce and Lancashire's spinners will expect more of that tomorrow.

“It would be great if I didn't have to bat at all, but I would certainly like to make a contribution.”