How did Head's masterful innings lead Australia to a commanding position against England?
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Synopsis
On Day 3 of the third Test at the Adelaide Oval, Australia's Travis Head scored an unbeaten 142, while Alex Carey contributed 52 not out, giving Australia a substantial 356-run lead over England. This match could mark a pivotal moment in the Ashes series. Don't miss the highlights!
Key Takeaways
- Travis Head scored 142 not out, showcasing exceptional batting.
- Alex Carey contributed with a solid 52 not out.
- Australia leads England by 356 runs at the end of Day 3.
- England's fightback was led by Ben Stokes with 83 runs.
- Key partnerships were crucial for Australia's innings.
Adelaide, Dec 19 (NationPress) Opener Travis Head remains not out at 142, supported by Alex Carey's 52 not out, enabling Australia to extend their lead and placing England on the verge of conceding the Ashes series. At stumps on Day 3 of the third Test at the Adelaide Oval, the hosts reached 271/4, leading by 356 runs.
Head, who was fortunate to be dropped by Harry Brook at 99, has now scored his second century of the series and the 11th in his Test career, marking his fourth century against England.
Despite a promising start from England's captain Ben Stokes (batted for 83 runs), who formed a partnership of 106 runs with Jofra Archer (batted for 51), the visitors could only reduce their overnight score of 213/8 to 286 before being bowled out.
Brydon Carse (1-48) raised excitement early by dismissing Jake Weatherald (1) lbw, putting Australia at 17/1 in just 5.0 overs as lunch approached. After the break, Josh Tongue (2-59) struck again, sending Marnus Labuschagne (13) back to the pavilion, giving England a flicker of hope.
However, the pressure was not sustained in the subsequent sessions. Australia lost only one wicket (Labuschagne) after lunch, reaching 119/2 by tea. Usman Khawaja resumed his solid form from the first innings and partnered with Head for an impressive 86-run stand.
England briefly rejuvenated their efforts after tea, with Will Jacks (1-107) dismissing Khawaja (40) and Tongue following up with the wicket of Cameron Green (7) in the next over, but by then, Australia’s lead was surging towards 300.
In the end, Alex Carey carried on his good form from the first innings, reaching a half-century and forming an unbroken 122-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Head.
Brief scores:
Australia 371 and 271/4 in 66 overs (Travis Head 142 not out, Alex Carey 52 not out; Josh Tongue 2-59) leads England 286 (Ben Stokes 83, Jofra Archer 51, Scott Boland 3-45, Pat Cummins 3-69) by 356 runs
Point of View
I view this performance from Travis Head and the Australian team as a defining moment in the Ashes series. The sizable lead they have built places immense pressure on England, who must regroup quickly to stay competitive. The match's outcome could significantly impact both teams' morale and standing in international cricket.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Travis Head's score in the third Test?
Travis Head scored an unbeaten 142 runs in the third Test.
What is the current lead of Australia over England?
Australia currently leads England by 356 runs.
Who was the captain of England during this match?
The captain of England is Ben Stokes.
What was the score at stumps on Day 3?
At stumps on Day 3, Australia was 271/4.
Where is the third Test being played?
The third Test is being played at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide.
