A magnificent century from former captain Joe Root propelled England to a first-innings total of 384, but a ferocious counter-attack from Australia's Travis Head has dramatically swung momentum back towards the hosts on day two of the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Root Joins Ponting in Elite Century Club
Resuming on his overnight score of 72, Joe Root played a near-flawless innings to compile a commanding 160 runs. This was his 41st Test century, a milestone that draws him level with Australian legend Ricky Ponting on the all-time list. Only Sachin Tendulkar (51) and Jacques Kallis (45) now stand above him.
Root's masterclass, which included his 17th score of 150 or more, was finally ended by a brilliant caught-and-bowled effort from seamer Michael Neser. Neser was the pick of the Australian bowlers, finishing with figures of 4 for 60. England lost their last seven wickets for 173 runs on Monday, with Harry Brook (84) and Jamie Smith (46) being the other notable contributors.
Head Launches Blazing Counter-Offensive
Set the task of navigating a tricky final session, Australia responded with aggressive intent. Despite the early loss of Jake Weatherald (21) and the fluent Marnus Labuschagne (48), the home side finished the day strongly at 166 for 2, largely thanks to Travis Head's unbeaten fireworks.
The left-hander, who already has two centuries in this series, took the attack to the English bowlers from the outset. He smashed three boundaries in the second over he faced from Matthew Potts and raced to a half-century off just 55 deliveries. By stumps, Head was unbeaten on a blazing 91 not out, with nightwatchman Michael Neser on one at the other end.
Series Context and What Lies Ahead
Australia, having already retained the Ashes urn with an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series, are in a commanding position to push for a 4-1 series victory. England, buoyed by their win in Melbourne, will need early wickets on day three to prevent Australia from building a match-defining lead.
The day belonged to two batsmen: Joe Root, who reaffirmed his class and ended his century drought in Australia, and Travis Head, whose fearless strokeplay has once again put his team in the driver's seat. The stage is set for another captivating day of Ashes cricket in Sydney.
