New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner and Australia seamer Kim Garth have become Trent Rockets’ final two direct signings for The Hundred in 2026.
Left-armer Santner, 33, has taken more than 250 shortest-format wickets at an average of just 23.96, and has been his country’s white-ball captain since December 2024.
Alongside him, 29-year-old Garth is set for a second, separate stint in The Hundred, after previously turning out for Manchester Originals (now Manchester Super Giants) in 2024.
Santner has also had a spell with Brave, in 2023, but more recently has appeared for Northern Superchargers (now Sunrisers Leeds) across the past two seasons of The Hundred.
On his most recent visit to Trent Bridge in September 2023, he was awarded Player of the Match after his figures of 3/30 helped New Zealand to a six-wicket IT20 win over England.
“The Hundred is such an interesting and unique format, which makes it a really fun challenge to experience,” added Santner.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time in the competition before, and the opportunity to play at Trent Bridge, one of the world’s most famous grounds, is an exciting thought.”
Seamer Garth previously represented Ireland, where she was born, before switching allegiances in 2020 and going on to take 52 wickets in 44 matches for Australia.
“I’m really excited to sign for Trent Rockets and get the chance to play in front of the amazing Trent Bridge crowds, which I’ve heard so much about,” said Garth.
“It’s brilliant to be playing alongside Ash too, and because of how much I enjoyed playing in it last time, I can’t wait to experience The Hundred again.”
Santner and Garth are the final two players have signed for the Rockets prior to March’s inaugural player auction, which in 2026 is replacing the draft system, with set salary tiers, that was previously used.
Teams instead now have a total pot to spend on their entire squad, but are permitted to make up to four overseas or England-contracted player signings or retentions before the auction.
A set amount of money is removed from that pot for every direct signing made.
Trent Rockets Men have already acquired Tim David and Ben Duckett, and retained Tom Banton, while Ash Gardner and Nat Sciver-Brunt will return to the women’s side, where they will be joined by new signing Sophia Dunkley.
“Mitch is someone I’ve admired for a long time, who’s always had an ability to control the game through subtle variations of line, length and pace,” said Men’s Head Coach, Peter Moores.
“His ability with the bat has grown year-on-year, and all-rounders are key to balancing a T20 team so you can keep your batting depth without compromising your bowling options.
“Mitch is one of the best around at that, and as an international captain he brings leadership qualities and experience, which make him feel a perfect fit at the Rockets next season.”
Women’s Head Coach, Chris Read, added: “It’s very pleasing that we’ve been able to add a player of Kim’s quality to our squad.
“Anyone who saw her performances in the most recent Big Bash tournament knows what she’s capable of, so we’re very much looking forward to welcoming her to Trent Rockets.”
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