By now, Ash Gardner and Tom Banton are seasoned veterans of Trent Bridge.

Having each put pen to paper on a return to Trent Rockets for a third season, the two - despite both still being under 30 - have lifted multiple trophies and enjoyed success across the world.

The duo first landed in NG2 for the fourth edition of The Hundred in 2024; for Gardner, it was her first experience of the competition, while Banton had already represented two other sides.

When they step out for the opening double-header in 2026, be that at Trent Bridge or elsewhere, it will mark the third consecutive season they have called Nottingham home.

While brought together in West Bridgford, the duo’s actual homes could hardly be further apart from one another - but they have found a common cause in yellow.

Banton, who has represented England’s white-ball sides on 31 occasions, hails from Buckinghamshire in the Home Counties, while Gardner originates from New South Wales.

The latter, who proudly holds Aboriginal heritage, has grown into one of Australia’s most important all-rounders, who strikes with power and simultaneously bowls skilful off-spin.

She was part of four different World Cup-winning teams and, with a reputation for delivering under pressure, stepped into the role of Rockets captain last year.

Widely viewed as a role model for her cricketing achievements and her off-field activity in equal measure, Gardner stands at the forefront of Australian cricket.

Meanwhile, fellow international Banton’s career may have followed a different path, but his route to the top has been no less exciting.

A two-time Vitality Blast winner with Somerset, whom he has represented in county cricket since 2017, his attacking nature is widely known across the game.

Possessing four centuries and a career strike rate north of 142 in shortest-format games, Banton’s reputation has earned him opportunities in franchise leagues across the globe.

Together, Gardner and Banton - who have a combined 34 appearances in yellow, and are now set to add yet more - have become integral parts of the Rockets.

They will step out onto the Trent Bridge turf again in 2026, each under the tutelage of new head coaches, aiming to thrill, excite, and make more of an impact than ever before.

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