Travis Head scored 91 runs against England in the 5th Ashes Test at the SCG. Get the full scorecard, inning highlights, and match
The Sydney Cricket Ground has witnessed many legendary Ashes moments, and on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test of the 2025/26 series, Travis Head added another chapter to that history. After England posted a formidable 384 on the back of Joe Root’s 160, Australia needed a spark to stay in the contest. They found it in the form of Travis Head, whose rapid-fire 91* from just 87 balls turned a potentially nervy final session into an exhibition of aggressive strokeplay.
Root’s Century and England’s Total
The day began with England in a position of strength. Joe Root, continuing his sublime form, converted his overnight 72 into a magnificent 160. It was his 41st Test century, drawing him level with Ricky Ponting on the all-time list. Supported by Harry Brook (84), Root helped England reach 384—a total that seemed more than enough to put Australia under pressure on a surface showing variable bounce.
However, Australia’s bowlers, led by Michael Neser (4/60), managed to trigger a late collapse, taking the final five English wickets for just 61 runs. This late surge gave the Australian openers a window of opportunity, and Travis Head, promoted to the top of the order, took full advantage.
Aggression from the Outset
From the moment Head walked out to the middle, his intent was clear. While his partner Jake Weatherald played the traditional opening role, Head was looking to “take the trash out,” as commentators described it. He didn’t wait for the bowlers to settle; in the second over of the innings, he smashed three boundaries off Matthew Potts, immediately putting the English seamers on the defensive.
Head’s batting was a blend of his signature horizontal-bat shots and precise drives. Anything short was dealt with by a rasping cut shot that scorched across the SCG outfield. He reached his half-century in just 55 balls, a strike rate that effectively neutralized England’s early momentum.
Building Partnerships and History
Head wasn’t just swinging blindly; he was building crucial stands. He shared a 57-run opening partnership with Weatherald (21) and followed it up with a 105-run stand for the second wicket with Marnus Labuschagne. While Labuschagne played a measured 48, Head remained the aggressor, ensuring the run rate stayed near five runs per over.
During this innings, Head also reached a massive personal milestone. He became the first Australian since Steve Smith in 2019 to score over 500 runs in a single Ashes series. Currently sitting at 528 runs for the series, he has cemented his status as the primary thorn in England’s side throughout this tour.
Australia in Control
As the sun began to set over the SCG, and a light drizzle eventually brought an early end to play, Head remained unconquered on 91 off 87 balls*, including 15 boundaries. He walked off alongside nightwatchman Michael Neser (1*), with Australia sitting comfortably at 166/2.
Travis Head scored 91 runs against England.
Although Australia still trails by 218 runs, the psychological advantage has firmly swung back to the hosts. England’s bowlers, who looked disciplined in the morning, appeared “powder puff” against Head’s onslaught in the final session.
What to Expect on Day 3
All eyes will be on Head as he resumes his innings tomorrow morning, just nine runs short of what would be his third century of the series. For England, the task is simple but difficult: they must find a way to dismiss Head early before he erases the remainder of their lead.
Australia 1st Innings
| Player Name | Runs | Balls |
| Travis Head | 91* | 87 |
| Jake Weatherald | 21 | 36 |
| Marnus Labuschagne | 48 | 68 |
| Michael Neser | 1* | 6 |
Travis Head scored 91 runs against England
