Head & Smith Put Australia Firmly on Top at SCG

Australia closed the third day at 518 for 7, already ahead by 134 runs, and still with three wickets to play. England’s bowlers bowled long sessions, and as the day went on, the physical and mental wear began to show clearly.

The early story belonged to Travis Head, as he once again turned the SCG into his stage, punishing anything loose and dominating the scoring. Head smashed 163 from 166 deliveries, a fierce innings that once again highlighted why he has been one of the standout performers of this Ashes series. His strike rate, tempo, and fearless approach constantly pushed England backward.

When Head walked off to a roaring reception, the noise lifted again when Usman Khawaja made his way to the crease for what could possibly be his final Test appearance. With the crowd willing him on, Khawaja attempted to settle but could not produce the farewell innings many wished to see. He managed only 17 before falling to Brydon Carse, leaving the pitch to generous applause in recognition of a long and respected career.

Even after Head’s dismissal, Australia continued building control. Every partnership had purpose, and the scoreboard advanced steadily as fatigue began to creep into the England attack.

Smith Anchors the Innings While England Struggles in the Field

The day slowly shifted into Steven Smith’s possession. The Australian captain constructed an unbeaten 129 off 205 balls, denying England chances and capitalizing on every lapse in discipline. His innings were patient, calculated, and controlled, particularly on a surface that was beginning to show unpredictable bounce.

England’s fielding performance only made matters harder. They missed four opportunities, including a crucial drop when Zak Crawley put Smith down early. Those missed chances proved even more costly, as Smith made England pay for every mistake. This century was his 37th in Tests and 13th in Ashes matches, which enhanced his wonderful competition history.

The pitch has gradually begun to crack, and the bounce has become increasingly uneven. As the weather becomes even warmer, the surface is likely to start cracking even more. That makes Australia’s 134-run advantage feel even heavier as the match advances.

Michael Neser added valuable contributions, too. Trusted once again in a nightwatch role, he frustrated England with calm defense and smart strokeplay. His ability to blunt the bowlers helped build partnerships that gradually drained the touring side.

England tried short-ball tactics to unsettle Head and Neser, but it rarely worked. A few half-chances appeared, yet catches slipped away at key moments, and the pressure shifted back onto the visitors.

Key Moments Shape The Day As England Fade Under Pressure

Head eventually missed a sweep and was trapped lbw by Jacob Bethell, ending any hopes of a double century. After his dismissal, Australia slowed the tempo slightly, consolidating and protecting what was becoming a powerful position.

Khawaja’s dismissal soon followed, leaving the SCG crowd momentarily subdued. Alex Carey looked composed but was dismissed for 16. Cameron Green provided a glimpse of promise, striking cleanly and reaching 37. However, he again failed to convert his start, miscued a short delivery, and handed his wicket away when stability was still needed.

Ben Stokes tried everything available and bowled with spirit despite obvious physical limitations, but without consistent support, his spells eventually faded. England rotated bowlers frequently, searching for something to shift momentum, yet the initiative remained with the Australians throughout most of the session.

Beau Webster, on debut, looked composed and confident alongside Smith late in the day. Their quiet yet productive partnership frustrated England further and set the stage for day four with Australia ready to push the match beyond reach.

Position at Stumps

Australia 518 for 7
Head 163
Smith 129 not out

England 384
Root 160
Brook 84

Neser 4 for 60

Australia lead by 134 runs heading into the next day of play, holding not only the scoreboard advantage but also the psychological edge.