The build-up to the series opener was dominated by England’s Bazball and the hype surrounding their pace battery, which Australia dismantled for just 132 in their first innings. But within 24 hours the story changed. As England fans, thousands of whom had flown across continents for Day 3, prepared for what they hoped would be the decisive part of the Test, Head’s fourth-innings masterclass destroyed their plans.
On the same day, Head’s wife Jessica posted a family photo from the airport earlier in the day, captioning it, “Someone surprised at the airport.” Hours later, the same image reached the front page of Western Australia.
In the match, promoted to open due to Usman Khawaja’s back spasms, Head produced one of the best knocks in Ashes history with 123 off 83 balls, including 16 boundaries and four sixes. His century from 69 balls was the second-fastest batsman in Ashes history and the fastest ever scored in the fourth innings of a Test.
Chasing 205 on a Perth surface, left-hander and fellow World Cup hero Marnus Labuschagne (51* off 49) put the English bowlers under pressure, creating a 117-run stand that tore the opposition apart. Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson and Mark Wood struggled to contain the Australian attack. Although Mitchell Starc claimed Player of the Match honors for his 10 wickets, the media and fans widely credited Head’s innings as the difference maker.
Get every cricket update! Follow us:
#Ashes #Australian #newspaper #calls #Travis #Englands #Daddy #jokes #gloomy #Poms #days #holiday