Former England captain Michael Atherton admitted to fearing a total "collapse or implosion" for his national side, but acknowledged they just about held on as Australia seized firm control on Day 3 of the fifth and final Ashes Test in Sydney. The hosts, powered by magnificent centuries from Travis Head and Steve Smith, finished the day at 518 for 7, securing a commanding 134-run first-innings lead over England's total of 384.
Atherton's Fear of England's 'Complete Implosion'
Analysing the day's play for Sky Sports Cricket, Atherton revealed his deep concerns during a gruelling morning session on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He pointed to extended sessions and a visibly fatigued England attack as factors that could have led to disaster. "In the morning session, I kind of feared, you know, we have seen those kinds of sessions in Australia before where nothing goes right," Atherton stated. He elaborated on a nightmare scenario of poor bowling, dropped catches, and burnt reviews. "I kind of feared a complete collapse or implosion. Actually they just about held it together, only just," he conceded.
Despite crediting the team's character in the final two sessions, Atherton was clear about the dire situation. "They are not in a good position at all. Australia are in a strong position leading by 130 odd with excellent hundreds from Travis Head and Steve Smith and still two days left. So they are right bang in the box seat to make it 4-1," he added, referencing Australia's potential to extend their series lead.
Head and Smith Masterclass Buries England
The day belonged unequivocally to Australia's batting duo. Travis Head, resuming from his overnight score of 91, was dismissed for a brilliant 163 from just 166 balls. This was his third century of the series, adding to his match-winning 123 in Perth and a 170 in Adelaide, cementing a phenomenal personal campaign.
At the other end, Steve Smith crafted his first century of the 2026 Ashes, remaining unbeaten on 129 at stumps. This innings lifted him from a relatively quiet series and marked a significant milestone. The century was his 13th in Ashes contests and the 37th of his illustrious Test career, moving him to sixth on the all-time list. It was also his fifth Test hundred at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Mountain to Climb for England with Two Days Left
Australia's dominance was further solidified by a valuable, unbroken 81-run partnership for the eighth wicket between Smith and Beau Webster, who was not out on 42. This stretched the lead beyond 130 and piled more pressure on England's weary bowlers.
With only two days of the series remaining, England's task to save this Test and avoid a 4-1 series scoreline is monumental. They will need to produce a vastly improved batting performance in their second innings, while hoping for favourable conditions, to challenge Australia's firm grip on the match and the urn.
