Travis Friend & Gary Brent at Duncombe Park CC

Travis Friend and Gary Brent both played international cricket for Zimbabwe. They also played for Duncombe Park CC! 

 

Thanks to former DPCC skipper Andrew Welford for his help creating this article. 

 

Gary Brent was Duncombe Park’s first overseas player, and his arrival marked an important chapter in the club’s history. At the time, he had been part of Zimbabwe’s preliminary squad for the World Cup due to be held in the UK. Although he narrowly missed out on the final 15-man selection, the disappointment created an opportunity. Keen to spend the summer in England and continue competing at a high level, he joined Duncombe Park with something to prove. 

 

From the moment he arrived, Brent set professional standards that immediately raised the level of those around him. His preparation, discipline, and competitive edge influenced teammates across the squad. Younger players, in particular, benefitted from his example, learning what it meant to train and perform with international intent. 

 

On the field, he formed a highly effective opening bowling partnership with Paul Wilkie. Together they provided control, aggression, and early breakthroughs, regularly putting opposition sides under pressure from the outset. Brent possessed an excellent slower ball, cleverly disguised and delivered with identical action to his stock delivery. It deceived many batsmen during his time at the club and would later prove effective at international level, notably accounting for Ricky Ponting during Zimbabwe’s tour the following winter — a reminder of the calibre of cricketer Duncombe Park had been fortunate to host. 

 

Despite his international pedigree, Brent embraced all aspects of club life. He even experienced local night cricket, memorably playing at Farndale, and fully immersed himself in the social side of the game. Long after his playing days at the club ended, he remained in contact with former teammates. He has since moved into coaching, working with schools and international sides, continuing to contribute to the development of the sport. 

 

Travis, by contrast, arrived as a teenager. Only 19 at the time, he was immediately recognised as a naturally gifted cricketer with significant potential. Unfortunately, he was managing a back injury during his spell with the club, which limited the opportunities to see him at full capacity. Even so, glimpses of his ability were unmistakable. When fully fit, he was genuinely quick, capable of troubling batsmen with pace and energy. 

In the field, he was lively and athletic, bringing enthusiasm and intensity to every match. His presence added vibrancy to the side, and despite his youth, he demonstrated composure beyond his years. He later went on to play county cricket with Derbyshire, gaining valuable experience in the professional game before pursuing a different career path. He is now a captain with Qatar airline, a profession demanding precision, focus, and responsibility — qualities he had already demonstrated on the cricket field. 

 

Both Brent and Travis left a lasting legacy at Duncombe Park. Their contributions extended beyond performances and statistics; they influenced standards, inspired teammates, and became valued members of the club community. Their time at the club remains an important and fondly remembered part of its history. 

 

Travis Friend - Linkedin 

Gary Brent - NDTV Sports