Travis Head century Ashes Australia crush England in Perth

Travis Head’s explosive century guides Australia to an eight-wicket victory over England in the first Ashes Test at Perth Stadium.

In a thrilling start to the 2025-26 Ashes series, Australia’s Travis Head delivered a masterclass innings, smashing a 69-ball century to steer his team to a commanding victory over England at Perth Stadium. With this win, Australia takes a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, setting the tone for a high-stakes contest.

Head’s Heroics Power Australia to Victory

Chasing a modest target of 205, Travis Head dominated the English bowling attack, scoring 123 runs with 16 boundaries and four sixes. His fearless approach helped Australia chase down the total comfortably, finishing the match with eight wickets in hand.

Head’s innings was notable not just for its aggression but also for its precision, as he brought up his half-century in just 36 balls and passed the 4,000-run mark in Test cricket. Marnus Labuschagne remained unbeaten on 51, providing crucial support, while Steve Smith was not out on two.

England’s Collapse Sparks Australian Advantage

The match turned dramatically after lunch on the second day when Australia’s pace duo, Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc, triggered a stunning collapse in the English batting line-up. England, who seemed in control at 65-1, lost four wickets in quick succession.

• Boland struck first, dismissing Ben Duckett (28), Ollie Pope (33), and Harry Brook (0) within 11 balls.
• Starc then removed Joe Root (8) and captain Ben Stokes (2), finishing with a sensational 10-wicket haul for the match, his third career 10-wicket performance.

England’s resistance was briefly revived by a 50-run partnership between Gus Atkinson (37) and Brydon Carse (20), but they ultimately succumbed to 164, giving Australia a slender 40-run first-innings lead.

Head Steps Up as Makeshift Opener

With Usman Khawaja sidelined due to stiffness, Travis Head was promoted to open, a role he had taken on nine previous occasions in Tests. He immediately showcased his attacking intent, hitting some towering sixes and elegant boundaries off Carse and Mark Wood.

Debutant Jake Weatherald also attempted to follow Head’s aggressive approach but fell for 23, leaving Head to carry the innings. Head’s fearless batting and ability to dominate the opposition attack highlighted his value to the Australian side, earning him his 10th Test century.

Starc and Boland’s Bowling Spark

Australia’s win was also fueled by the relentless bowling performances of Starc and Boland. Starc, who had taken a first-innings haul of 7-58, continued his brilliant form, removing Zak Crawley in his first over with a spectacular caught-and-bowled effort. Boland’s accuracy and movement off the pitch dismantled England’s middle order, setting up the perfect platform for Head’s heroic innings.

A Statement Start to the Ashes Series

Australia’s comprehensive win at Perth Stadium not only gives them a 1-0 series advantage but also sends a strong message to England. With key players like Head, Starc, and Boland firing, the hosts look well-positioned to dominate the series.

As England regroups, the next Test promises to be an exciting clash, with Australia confident and the crowd buzzing after one of the most electric performances in recent Ashes history.