SYDNEY, Jan 5 (Reuters) — England’s Joe Root delivered a commanding batting performance with a brilliant century but Australia hit back through Travis Head as the hosts gained the upper hand on the second day of the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Root Stars With a Long, Masterful Innings
England were already trailing 3–1 in the Ashes series — a deficit that had cost them the urn — but Root produced a stellar display to give the tourists their highest first-innings total of the series. Root scored an impressive 160 runs from 242 balls, anchoring England to 384 all out. This was his 41st Test century and second on Australian soil, underscoring his enduring class in the longest format.
Root’s innings was built on patience and precision, featuring 15 fours and no sixes as he worked partnerships throughout the batting order, including with Harry Brook and Jamie Smith, to steadily build England’s scoreboard.
Despite limited flamboyance, Root’s knock was marked by technical excellence on a pitch that offered little more than steady bounce. England ended up with a competitive total that could potentially shape the course of the match if their bowlers could take full advantage.
Australia’s Response: Head Leads the Fightback
Australia’s reply on day two was lively and aggressive. Experienced middle-order batter Travis Head was unbeaten on 91 runs off 87 balls by stumps, steering the home side to 166 for 2 and diminishing England’s first-innings advantage. Head’s fluent strokeplay included rapid runs through the covers and powerful drives, signaling Australia’s intent to regain control.
Head’s partnership with nightwatchman Michael Neser (1 not out) helped Australia reduce the deficit to 218 runs with plenty of batting still to come on day three, setting up an intriguing contest for the remaining sessions.
Despite England creating early chances with the ball — including Ben Stokes dismissing Jake Weatherald (21) and Marnus Labuschagne (48) — Australia’s batsmen weathered the challenge and built a resolute foundation.
England’s Resilience and Remaining Challenge
While England’s hopes of retaining the Ashes were extinguished early in the series, their fight in this final match has shown determination and renewed competitive spirit — traits evident in Root’s marathon knock. A strong total like 384 offers England an opportunity to make a late impression in the series.
However, their bowlers must now capitalize on opportunities and maintain disciplined lines to curtail the Australian chase. Fielding lapses earlier in the day — including a couple of dropped catches — hinted that England will need sharper execution if they hope to stifle Australia’s momentum.
What’s Next
As the match progresses into its crucial third day, the dynamics of the fifth Test remain finely balanced. Root’s exceptional century has given England a respectable total to defend, but Head’s punchy unbeaten 91 ensures Australia will continue to push for a commanding position.
With the Ashes already decided in Australia’s favour, the final Test now represents pride, performance legacy, and momentum heading into the future — especially for players like Root and Head, who continue to make significant impacts in the storied rivalry.
Summary: Joe Root’s majestic 160 helped England post 384 in the first innings of the fifth Ashes Test at Sydney, but Travis Head’s unbeaten 91 has driven Australia to a strong position at 166-2 by stumps, setting up an exciting day three in the final match of the series.
