The Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed a masterclass in Test match batting as Australia seized total control of the final Ashes Test on Day 3. Behind centuries from Travis Head and the irrepressible Steven Smith, the hosts built a commanding 134-run lead, reaching 518 for 7. While the day was filled with clinical strokeplay and England’s mounting fielding woes, it was also an emotional afternoon as the Australian public potentially said a final goodbye to a modern great.
Travis Head’s Blitz and Khawaja’s Emotional Farewell
The morning session belonged to Travis Head, who wasted no time converting his overnight 91 into his 12th Test century. Reaching the milestone in just 105 balls, Head continued his “demolition job” of the England attack, specifically targeting Matthew Potts in a ruthless display. Despite being dropped twice—once by Will Jacks in a moment of fielding “ignominy” and again by Brydon Carse—Head’s 163 off 166 balls laid the foundation for Australia’s massive total. His departure eventually made way for Usman Khawaja, playing in what is expected to be his final Test match.
The SCG erupted in a thunderous ovation for Khawaja, though the “fairytale innings” remained elusive. The veteran opener struggled for rhythm, eventually falling for 17 after missing a low full-toss from Carse. While his dismissal was uncharacteristically clumsy, the Sydney crowd rose as one to salute a stalwart of the game, leaving many to wonder if that was the final time he would grace the crease in the baggy green.
Smith’s Milestone and England’s Crumbling Spirit
As Head and Khawaja provided the drama, Steven Smith provided the backbone. Smith’s unbeaten 129 was a masterclass in patience and “gamesmanship,” featuring his signature theatrics and a constant mental battle with the England bowlers. During his 205-ball stay, Smith surpassed several records, moving into second place on the all-time Ashes run-scorers and century lists, trailing only the legendary Sir Donald Bradman. His 37th Test ton was a gritty reminder of his dominance in the format, particularly as he feasted on the spin of Will Jacks and Jacob Bethell.
England’s spirit appeared to break under the Sydney sun as their fielding standards plummeted. The tourists dropped four catches in the first session alone, including a crucial reprieve for Smith when he was on just 12. With the pitch beginning to show uneven bounce and cracks widening, England faces a monumental task to save the match. Australia, currently leading by 134 runs, looks poised to push for a 4-1 series victory, leaving the visitors staring down the barrel of a demoralizing finish to the tour.
The day ended with debutant Beau Webster looking composed alongside Smith, ensuring England’s weary bowlers must return for a third consecutive day in the field. With the lead ballooning and the surface deteriorating, the path to an Australian victory seems increasingly clear.
