England openers Ben Duckett and Sophia Dunkley have joined Trent Rockets for the 2026 Hundred season, while Birmingham Phoenix have signed seamer Lauren Filer.
Duckett, 31, endured a difficult Ashes series in Australia, averaging just 20.2, but has established himself as one of the world’s leading all-format opening batters in recent years and arrives from Birmingham Phoenix.
The left-hander already knows Trent Bridge, having played his county cricket for Nottinghamshire since 2018.
“Trent Bridge is already my home in so many different ways, so signing for the Rockets feels like a full circle moment, and I’m absolutely delighted,” said Duckett.
“Without doubt, it’s my favourite ground to play at in England, and I can’t wait to play for the Rockets in front of the best fans in the country too.”
Dunkley, an England regular since making her international debut in 2021, joins from Welsh Fire.
The 27-year-old batter has scored 1,065 runs in The Hundred at an average of 31.32 with seven half-centuries.
“The platform that The Hundred has given the women’s game so far has been immense, and it’s an incredibly exciting time, so I can’t wait to see what lies in store with the Rockets,” she said.
Rockets head coach Chris Read added: “Sophia will be a brilliant addition to our squad, and brings proven run-scoring ability coupled with valuable experience.”
England bowler Filer, one of the fastest bowlers in the women’s game, joins Ellyse Perry and fellow new signing Alice Capsey in the Phoenix squad.
The 25-year-old joins from Manchester Originals, where she spent two years following single seasons at London Spirit and Welsh Fire.
She averaged 12.12 with the ball for Originals in 2025, taking eight wickets in six matches.
“Lauren is an exciting young bowler with genuine pace and real competitiveness in her game,” said Phoenix women’s head coach Ali Maiden.
“She brings an aggressive mindset and control that we believe will be crucial in The Hundred.”
Teams have been limited to four signings for the 2026 season, with all remaining players set to be allocated to squads in a new auction format.
England batter Jacob Bethell and spinner Rehan Ahmed have signed for Phoenix’s men’s side.
“I’m really pleased to be joining Birmingham Phoenix,” said Filer.
“I’ve always loved playing at Edgbaston where the atmosphere is incredible. I can’t wait to get started with the team, bowl in front of the Phoenix fans, and contribute to what I know will be a strong season.”
