Sydney: Australia tightened its grip on the fifth and final Ashes Test on Tuesday, thanks to a spectacular batting display from Travis Head and a masterful century from Steve Smith. The duo powered the hosts to a commanding position, finishing day three at 518 for 7 in reply to England's first innings total of 384, securing a substantial lead of 134 runs.
Destructive Batting Puts England to the Sword
Travis Head, the aggressive left-hander, was in devastating form, racing to his third century of the series. He smashed 163 runs off just 174 balls, a knock filled with powerful strokeplay. Resuming on his overnight score of 91, Head reached his hundred with a crunching cover drive, celebrating his 12th Test century and first at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground.
At the other end, Steve Smith played a more measured but equally commanding innings. He remained not out on 129 at stumps, bringing up his 37th Test hundred and his 13th in Ashes cricket, moving past the legendary English batsman Jack Hobbs. Only the great Donald Bradman, with 19, has more Ashes centuries.
Key Moments and Wickets
Head's brilliant innings finally ended after lunch when he was trapped lbw by part-time spinner Jacob Bethell, who was bowling for the first time in the series. Head had enjoyed a life on 121 when Will Jacks dropped a straightforward catch in the deep.
Smith, however, showed no mercy. He treated Bethell with disdain, launching him for a huge six on his way to the milestone. The Australian skipper was given a reprieve early in his innings when Zak Crawley dropped a chance at leg slip.
Other notable contributions came from Cameron Green (37) and nightwatchman Michael Neser, who frustrated the English bowlers for 90 balls to score 24. Usman Khawaja, playing his final Test match, was dismissed for 17, while Alex Carey made 16.
Series Context and Looking Ahead
Australia has already retained the Ashes urn, leading the series 3-1. However, England is desperate to salvage some pride with a win after their victory in the previous Test in Melbourne. The home side's massive lead, built on the back of Head and Smith's partnership, has put them in a formidable position to push for a 4-1 series victory.
"It was a nice batting wicket out there," Smith said after the day's play. "It was great to start my innings on the back of a fantastic innings from Travis Head. When you're out there with him, they tend to forget about you, and I was able to get into my work. It worked out well today."
With two days remaining and a significant lead, Australia will look to bat England out of the game on day four, setting up a declaration to push for a final victory in this historic Ashes contest.
