Another thrilling chapter was added to the storied Ashes rivalry on a wild day of Test cricket at Perth's Optus Stadium, where a blazing Travis Head century sparked a remarkable Australian fightback after England's batting order imploded.
Head's Historic Innings Turns the Tide
Australia found themselves in a precarious position when veteran opener Usman Khawaja was ruled out of batting on day two due to back spasms. The team management turned to outside-the-box thinking, promoting aggressive left-hander Travis Head to open alongside debutant Jake Weatherald.
The move proved inspired as Head blazed the second-fastest century in Ashes history, reaching triple figures from just X deliveries. His aggressive approach forced England to abandon the disciplined lengths that had troubled batters throughout the match, instead dropping short and paying the price as Head dispatched them to all parts of the ground.
Head's fireworks had a calming effect on his batting partner, allowing Weatherald to settle into his first Test match and score his initial international runs. The partnership also provided the perfect platform for Marnus Labuschagne, who arrived at the crease with England's key pace threats Mark Wood and Jofra Archer having already completed their opening spells.
England's Dramatic Collapse
Earlier in the day, England appeared to be taking control of the match, cruising at 1-65 before the game turned dramatically. The much-vaunted 'Bazball' approach showed its dark side as the visitors lost four wickets for just 12 runs in a stunning collapse.
Scott Boland, who had struggled on day one, returned with renewed purpose and immediately made an impact. The Victorian quick found his trademark hard length and subtle movement, first removing opener Ben Duckett before entering what commentators described as 'full MCG mode' by dismissing Ollie Pope and Harry Brook in quick succession.
Joe Root and Ben Stokes followed shortly after, both falling to aggressive shots that many felt should have been left alone. The collapse took England from a position of strength to suddenly putting Australia back in control of the match.
Late Resistance and Questionable Tactics
England did show some late fight through Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse, who put together a swashbuckling 50-run partnership that gave their side hope. However, many observers questioned Australia's tactics during this period, as they abandoned the full lengths that had brought success earlier to bowl short and allow the tail to wag.
Similarly, when Australia began their chase, England immediately reverted to short-pitched bowling despite the evidence showing that good lengths had been most effective throughout the match. This tactical decision played directly into Travis Head's hands and allowed him to play his natural aggressive game.
Khawaja Fitness Questions Linger
The absence of Usman Khawaja from Australia's batting lineup raised questions about both his form and fitness. The 39-year-old opener couldn't bat in either innings due to back spasms, with Marnus Labuschagne taking his spot in the first innings and Travis Head in the second.
Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg was forced to defend Khawaja's decision to play golf the day before the Test match. 'It's held him in good stead over the last couple of years,' Greenberg told SEN radio. 'It's not uncommon for a lot of them to play golf the day prior.'
However, it was revealed that Khawaja had played three rounds of golf during the week leading up to the Test, including sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday amid training at Optus Stadium.
Barmy Army Creates Electric Atmosphere
Despite the on-field drama, the spirit of the Ashes remained strong in the stands. English supporters created an incredible atmosphere around Optus Stadium, with dozens of flags draped around the ground and the Barmy Army supplying constant tunes and good humour.
Their highlight came on day one when they sang 'are you Scotland in disguise' as Australia collapsed to 9-123, but they maintained their vocal support throughout Saturday's action. The large contingent of England fans mixed happily with Australian supporters, with everyone embracing the unique Ashes spirit.
The day's events set up a fascinating continuation of the Perth Test, with Australia now firmly back in contention after looking down and out at various stages of the first two days.
