SYDNEY: Travis Head scored a commanding 163 and Steve Smith an unbeaten 65 as Australia closed just seven runs behind England’s first innings total of 384 at tea on day three of the fifth Ashes Test. The hosts were 377-6, with Cameron Green on eight not out, at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Read More: Australia’s Head hopes Ashes rivals meet for post-series drinks
Head, playing his 12th Test century and first in Sydney, brought up three figures off 105 balls, displaying aggressive strokeplay and powerful boundaries. His innings included multiple fours and a six, helping Australia recover from 166-2 at the start of the day. However, Head was dismissed lbw by part-time spinner Jacob Bethell after lunch, ending a remarkable knock.
Another batting blitz at the top of the order from Travis Head 👊
More from #AUSvENG 📲 https://t.co/WWzgB7Cjh2 pic.twitter.com/Ye8FPoRD5v
— ICC (@ICC) January 6, 2026
Usman Khawaja, playing his 88th and final Test, fell for 17 lbw to Brydon Carse, while Alex Carey added 16 before edging Josh Tongue to Bethell. Nightwatchman Michael Neser offered valuable support, staying for 90 balls and scoring 24. Smith, now in charge of the innings, was unbeaten on 65, ensuring Australia remained close to England’s total.
Australia’s innings has been boosted by Head’s aggressive top-order approach, which has made him a key figure in the series. He resumed at 91 with Neser on one and immediately put pressure on England’s bowlers, particularly Ben Stokes and Matthew Potts. Despite some near-misses in the field, including dropped catches by Will Jacks and Zak Crawley, Australia managed to keep momentum before the tea break.
Read More: 69-ball 123: Head stars in rapid Ashes victory over England
The hosts lead the series 3-1, having already retained the Ashes, but England remains eager to avoid a whitewash after winning the previous Test in Melbourne. With the final Test underway, Head and Smith’s partnership has kept Australia competitive and poised to challenge England in the second innings.