Travis Head delivered a masterful, patient century on the third day at the Adelaide Oval, steering Australia into a position of utter dominance in the second Ashes Test and continuing the systematic dismantling of England's 'Bazball' approach.
A Patient Demolition Job
The sight of the hometown hero being congratulated by fellow South Australian Alex Carey upon reaching three figures was symbolic of a day where Australia methodically tightened their grip. This was a stark contrast to Head's blistering 69-ball century in the first Test at Perth, which initially shattered England's confidence. In Adelaide, recognising the match situation, he adopted a more measured approach, compiling his runs at a strike rate between 60 and 70, which proved more than sufficient.
Head's innings of 142 not out was built on discipline, punctuated by only occasional aggressive strokes. He gave England one lifeline, dropped on 99 by Harry Brook off the bowling of a weary Jofra Archer, but otherwise was in complete control. His partnership of 86 with Usman Khawaja, and an unbroken century stand with Alex Carey, ground England's attack and spirit into the Adelaide dust.
The Final Nails in the Coffin
The day's play served as a poignant metaphor for the state of the series. While Head and Carey were meticulously assembling what the original analysis termed a "cremation pyre" for England's hopes, they were also cementing Head's claim to the opening batting spot for the future. With Steve Smith set to return at number four in Melbourne, Head's fourth consecutive century at the Adelaide Oval makes him almost impossible to dislodge from the top of the order.
This creates a selection dilemma for the Australian panel regarding the veteran Khawaja. Despite valuable contributions of 82 and 40 in this match, at 39 years old, his long-term future is limited. Choosing him for the remainder of the series would be a decision favouring the present over investing in youth before a packed 2027 schedule featuring tours to India and England.
A Historic Day for South Australia
Beyond the series narrative, the day held deep local significance. Head and Carey became the first Adelaide-born pair to score centuries in the same Test match in their home city, a historic feat that brought immense pride to a state that has often felt underrepresented in the national side. Their partnership through the Friday afternoon session turned the Oval into a celebratory party.
Australia will resume on day four, already 356 runs ahead with two full days remaining. England's bowlers looked exhausted, with Archer particularly feeling the strain of bowling on all three days and batting for extended periods. Their fielding grew diffident, and a monumental batting collapse appears to be the only thing that could deny Australia a 2-0 series lead. The final rites for England's campaign in this Ashes series are being read, and Australia's bowlers will be eager to light the fire.
