SYDNEY, Jan 6 (Reuters) — Australia came agonisingly close to matching England’s first-innings total in the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, powered by a brilliant century from Travis Head as the hosts fought back in the match.
Head’s Dominant Century Anchors Australia’s Response
On the third day of the Sydney Test, Australia reached 377 for six at tea, just seven runs behind England’s 384 — a total compiled after a superb century from Joe Root in the first innings. Head was the standout performer with the bat, scoring a rapid 163 from 166 balls, his third century of the series, before being dismissed lbw by England’s Jacob Bethell.
Head’s aggressive innings was key in lifting Aus close to England’s score despite early pressure. His knock was filled with powerful drives and calculated boundaries that kept the scoreboard moving and frustrated the touring attack throughout the session.
Support from Smith and Lower Order
Following Head’s dismissal, captain Steve Smith (65 not out) and all-rounder Cameron Green (8 not out) steadied the innings to ensure Australia continued closing in on England’s total by the tea break. The hosts showed resilience and depth in their batting — a testament to their intent to challenge England’s position in this match, even though the Ashes series result had already been decided in Australia’s favour.
England’s Bowling Struggles
England’s bowling attack had a tough day, with Matthew Potts in particular suffering as he conceded a large number of runs while failing to take a wicket. Despite a couple of opportunities, including the dismissal of Head, England were unable to consistently trouble the ausbatters. Australia’s lower order chipped in with useful contributions to ensure the hosts inched closer to parity with their rivals’ first innings.
Match Context and Series Situation
Earlier in the match, Joe Root scored a brilliant 160 to help England post 384 in their first innings, giving them a competitive total to defend. However, Australia’s response underlined their determination not to let England dominate the final encounter, with Head’s counterattack providing a defining moment.
Although Australia already held an unassailable 3–1 lead in the series, meaning they had retained the Ashes before this match, the momentum in this final Test has swung in their favour as they seek to complete a convincing tour performance. Head’s aggressive knock exemplified Australia’s resolve to make the most of home conditions and end the series on a high.
What’s Next
With Australia now so close to matching England’s total, the remainder of the match promises exciting contest as both teams vie for supremacy in this traditional rivalry. England’s bowlers will look to strike early in the second innings to regain control, while Australia will hope their tail can muscle them past England’s tally to set a challenging target. The final sessions of this historic Test are sure to produce compelling cricket action.
