Ashes 2025-26: How Travis Head's Explosive Knock Take the Match Away From England?

Australia pulled off one of their most impressive fightbacks in recent Ashes memory, and the player who shaped that turnaround was Travis Head. After scoring only 21 in the first innings while batting at No. 5, Head was moved to the top of the order for the second innings in place of Labuschagne. The change worked instantly. Head batted with freedom and confidence, lighting up the stadium with his clean strikes. His 123 off 83 balls, filled with 16 fours and four sixes, completely shifted the tone of the match and gave Australia the spark they desperately needed. 

 

England Lose Control as Momentum Shifts to Australia 

 

The day had actually begun in England’s favour. With nine wickets already collected the previous day, they finished the job early by removing the final Australian batter and stretching their lead to 40. At that stage, England looked firmly in command and ready to dictate how the rest of the match would unfold. But the situation changed rapidly once play resumed after lunch. 

 

Australia’s bowlers stuck to their plans and applied steady pressure, forcing England into mistakes. A sudden collapse saw three wickets fall in quick succession, including the important dismissals of Harry Brook and Joe Root.

 

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That brief slide shattered England’s rhythm and opened a path for Australia to fight back. England attempted to steady themselves through a brisk stand between Atkinson and Carse, who added valuable runs and briefly pushed the scoreboard forward. Despite their efforts, England could not maintain control and were eventually bowled out for 164. 

 

With a target of just 205 set for Australia, the match took on a different feel. Confidence grew in the home camp, and Head’s aggressive approach at the top only strengthened Australia’s grip on the situation.

 

His innings not only changed the direction of the game but also reminded everyone how quickly Australia can respond when given even the slightest opening. Head’s fearless knock became the defining moment of the match and has added fresh excitement to the rest of the Ashes series.