SYDNEY: Travis Head’s blistering 163 and a landmark century from Steve Smith powered Australia to a dominant position on the third day of the fifth Ashes Test against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday. Already 3-1 up in the series and with the urn secured, Australia closed the day on 518 for seven, holding a first-innings lead of 134 runs.
Head continued his outstanding series in emphatic fashion, bringing up his third century of the contest off just 105 balls. Resuming on 91, he took full advantage of a bat-friendly surface, punishing the England attack with his trademark aggression to steer Australia past lunch at 281 for three.
Smith, meanwhile, etched his name further into Ashes history. His unbeaten 129 marked his 13th Ashes hundred and lifted him to second on the list of all-time Ashes run-scorers. The skipper anchored the innings after the new ball, sharing vital partnerships, including a 71-run stand with Cameron Green.
There was a muted farewell for Usman Khawaja, who managed just 17 in his final Test, but Australia’s batting depth ensured England endured another long, punishing day in the field.
