Australia seized a commanding position in the fifth and final Ashes Test, thanks to spectacular centuries from Travis Head and Steve Smith on a dominant third day at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday. The hosts ended the day at 518 for 7, building a substantial 134-run lead over England's first-innings total of 384.
Century Blitz Puts England on the Back Foot
Travis Head, the series' standout performer, continued his destructive form with a scintillating 163. This was his third century of the series, adding to his match-winning 123 in Perth and 170 in Adelaide. He reached his hundred off just 105 balls, showcasing aggressive intent from the outset. Meanwhile, Steve Smith compiled a composed, unbeaten 129, registering his first century of this Ashes series and his 13th overall in Ashes cricket, moving past the legendary England batsman Jack Hobbs.
Head resumed the day on 91 and quickly brought up his century. He looked set for a double hundred but was dismissed after lunch by part-time spinner Jacob Bethell, who trapped him lbw for 163. Smith, however, remained unflappable at the crease, guiding the innings and punishing the bowlers, including dispatching Bethell for a massive six.
Key Moments and Supporting Acts
The day was not without its chances for England, who let opportunities slip. Smith was dropped on 12 by Zak Crawley at leg slip, a costly miss. Head also had a life on 121 when Will Jacks dropped a straightforward catch near the boundary. Nightwatchman Michael Neser played a resilient knock of 24 from 90 balls, frustrating the English attack.
Veteran Usman Khawaja, playing his final Test match, was dismissed for 17. Alex Carey made 16, while Cameron Green showed promise with a brisk 37 before falling to a soft dismissal. Beau Webster remained not out on 42 at stumps, partnering with Smith.
Series Context and What Lies Ahead
With Australia already leading the series 3-1 and having retained the Ashes, this final Test is about pride for an England side desperate for a morale-boosting win after their victory in Melbourne. The comprehensive batting performance by Head and Smith, however, has put the visitors firmly on the defensive.
"Nice batting wicket out there. Nice to start my innings on the back of a great innings from Travis Head," Smith told Fox Sports after the day's play. His innings underlined his class and experience, steering Australia into a position from where they can push for a 4-1 series victory. England's bowlers, now tired and reviewing their options, face a monumental task to restrict Australia's lead and set up a manageable fourth-innings chase.
