Head’s masterclass Puts Australia Firmly in Command in Third Ashes Test

 

Australia tightened their grip on the third Ashes Test with another dominant display at Adelaide, ending Day Three at a commanding 271 for 4 in their second innings and stretching their overall lead to a daunting 356 runs over England. The day belonged unequivocally to Travis Head, whose sublime batting etched his name deeper into the record books.

After dismissing England for 286 in their first innings and securing an 85-run lead, Australia began their second innings on an uncertain note. Openers failed to provide stability as Jake Weatherald departed for 1, followed soon by Marnus Labuschagne for 13, briefly offering England a window back into the contest. However, Ben Stokes’ men were unable to capitalise on the early breakthroughs.

Head seized control with a magnificent counterattacking innings, displaying authority, timing and composure. By stumps, he remained unbeaten on a superb 142, well supported by Alex Carey, who played a calm and assured knock of 52 not out. Together, the duo added an invaluable 122 runs for the fifth wicket, firmly shifting momentum back in Australia’s favour.

The century was Head’s 11th in Test cricket and carried historic significance. He became only the fifth Australian batter to score centuries in four consecutive Tests at the same venue, joining an elite club featuring Don Bradman, Wally Hammond, Michael Clarke and Steve Smith. Earlier in the innings, Usman Khawaja contributed a fluent 40, while Cameron Green once again struggled, managing just 7.

England’s bowlers toiled on a placid Adelaide surface with limited reward. Josh Tongue emerged as the most effective, claiming 2 wickets for 59 runs, while Brydon Carse picked up 1 for 48. Will Jacks endured a difficult day, conceding 107 runs for his solitary wicket as the Australian batters dictated terms.

Earlier, England’s first innings had concluded at 286 on Friday. Overnight pair Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer had revived hopes with a spirited stand that lifted the total to 274. Stokes fell for a fighting 83 to Mitchell Starc, after which the innings quickly lost momentum. Archer showed admirable resistance with a gritty 51 before edging Scott Boland to Labuschagne, bringing the innings to a close. Tongue remained unbeaten on 7.

Australia’s bowling effort was well-rounded and disciplined. Boland led the attack with 3 wickets for 45, while captain Pat Cummins matched him with 3 for 69. Nathan Lyon chipped in with 2 for 70, and both Starc and Cameron Green claimed a wicket each.

With a massive lead and two set batters at the crease, Australia are firmly in control as the Test heads into a decisive phase, leaving England staring at an uphill battle in Adelaide.