CricketTravis Head Hits Maiden Ton Outside Home, Australia Ends Day 1 On 327/3
Post image
In a display of brilliance, Travis Head delivered an outstanding century to put Australia in a commanding position against India on the first day of the World Test Championship final at The Oval.

Head, who was the player of the series in the last Ashes, served as a powerful reminder of his talent, scoring an unbeaten 146 runs from just 156 balls. Partnering with Steve Smith, who himself looked formidable with an unbeaten 95, Head orchestrated an unbroken partnership of 251 runs. As a result, Australia finished the day at a commanding 327-3.

The match began with India winning the toss and choosing to bowl first on a green pitch under a grey sky. Their decision paid off initially, as Australia stumbled to 76-3. However, as the batting conditions eased, India’s backup seamers failed to maintain the same level of threat posed by the new-ball bowlers.


steptodown
Travis Head celebrating his maiden test century outside Australia // Getty Images

India may come to regret their omission of off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, as the conditions seemed favorable for his skills.

India will take the field on Thursday with a relatively new ball, less than five overs old. It is imperative for them to strike early if they want to avoid being overwhelmed by Australia’s strong batting lineup.

Before England witnessed the phenomenon of “Bazball” with Brendon McCullum, Head had already showcased his own unique style of batting, known as “Travball.” He emerged as the leading run-scorer during the previous Ashes series, scoring at an impressive strike rate of 86 runs per 100 balls.

Coming in after lunch when Australia was in a tricky situation, Head immediately demonstrated his intent by hitting back-to-back boundaries from the fifth and sixth balls he faced. From there on, he continued to score at a brisk pace. Head’s strength on the off side was evident as he played elegant cuts and drives, and even executed a ramp shot off Mohammed Shami for a six.

Surprisingly, he barely scored a run down the ground. Despite facing a barrage of bouncers that caused some discomfort, Head fully deserved his sixth Test hundred.


Read More: Justin Langer Criticizes BCCI’s Decision to Strip Virat Kohli of Captaincy in a Shocking Turn of Events


Head’s exceptional performance surpassed that of his partner, Smith, who initially struggled to find his rhythm but eventually reminded England that he is ready for yet another prolific Ashes series. Smith’s innings was characteristic of his style—both vulnerable and impenetrable at the same time.

Edges consistently fell short of the slips, wide deliveries were cleverly worked into the leg side, and anything on the pads was devoured with gusto. Due to the arrival of the second new ball and a lack of strike in the final moments of the day, Smith was made to wait for his 31st Test century.


steptodown
Steve Smith and Travis Head after end of day 1 // Getty Images

His insatiable hunger for runs hints at the possibility of him achieving something even greater on Thursday. With Travis Head’s magnificent century and Steve Smith’s solid contribution, Australia has taken control of the World Test Championship final against India.

However, cricket is a game full of uncertainties, and India’s bowlers will be determined to strike early on day two to halt Australia’s momentum. As the battle between the two cricketing giants continues, fans eagerly await another enthralling day of high-stakes cricket at The Oval.