Fifth Ashes Test, Sydney Cricket Ground (day three of five)
England 384: Root 160, Brook 84; Neser 4-60
Australia 518-7: Head 163, Smith 129*; Carse 3-108
Australia are 134 runs ahead
Australia Dominate Day Three at the SCG
Australia tightened their grip on the fifth Ashes Test on day three at the Sydney Cricket Ground, reaching 518-7 and establishing a 134-run lead over England. The day belonged to Travis Head and Steve Smith, whose centuries left England staring at a likely fourth defeat of the series.
The match unfolded against the backdrop of Jane McGrath Day, with the SCG awash in pink as players and supporters marked the annual occasion. On the field, however, the cricket was relentlessly one-sided.
Head’s 163 Sets the Platform
Resuming on 91 overnight, Travis Head continued his assault on the England attack, scoring a commanding 163. He punished any width and capitalised on repeated fielding errors, with England dropping multiple chances during the morning session.
Head brought up his third century of the series, further underlining his influence throughout the Ashes. His innings finally ended shortly after lunch, but by then the damage had been done.
Smith’s Unbeaten Century and Historic Milestone
At the other end, Steve Smith delivered another defining Ashes performance, finishing the day 129 not out. It was his 37th Test hundred and 13th century in Ashes cricket, his first against England since the Lord’s Test in 2023.
During the innings, Smith passed Jack Hobbs’ Ashes run tally of 3,636, moving into second place on the all-time list behind Donald Bradman. The milestone capped a composed and authoritative display that further frustrated England.
England’s Bowling Effort
England’s bowlers struggled to stem the flow of runs on a flat surface. Brydon Carse emerged as the most successful, returning figures of 3-108, while Michael Neser claimed 4-60. Captain Ben Stokes carried a heavy workload in an effort to compensate for the lack of penetration from the new-ball attack.
Despite those efforts, England were unable to regain control after a difficult opening session in which key chances were missed.
Match Situation
England had begun the day in a strong position, with Australia 218 runs behind at 166-2. By stumps, the hosts had not only erased the deficit but surged into a commanding lead, leaving England facing a daunting task when they begin their second innings.
With Australia on course for a 4-1 Ashes series victory, England will require a substantial rearguard effort to keep the match alive.
Conclusion
Day three at the SCG marked a decisive shift in the fifth Test. Head’s 163 and Smith’s unbeaten 129 transformed the contest, turning a competitive position into one of clear Australian dominance. Against the symbolic backdrop of Jane McGrath Day, Australia produced a performance defined by control, discipline and scoreboard pressure.
