Will Travis Head continue to open in Tests after Ashes?
What's the story
Travis Head, Australia's dashing opener, has expressed his fondness for his new role as an opener in the Test team. After a stellar performance in the Ashes series, where he scored a remarkable 170 runs off 219 balls at Adelaide Oval, Head said he "likes the new role and the new ball." This comes after Australia sealed the ongoing series 3-0 after winning the third Test in Adelaide.
Series stats
Head's performance and series lead
Head has been the top scorer in the Ashes series, amassing 379 runs in six innings at an average of 63.16 and a strike rate of over 88. He has hit two centuries in six innings. His latest knock was instrumental in helping Australia secure a commanding position against England, with two more matches left to play. Notably, Head was Australia's mainstay number-five batter in Tests before this series.
Role shift
Head's transition to opening role
"Batting all day is still a bit new to me, so that was nice. It has been hard work but awesome," Head said during the post-match presentation. He added that he is happy batting anywhere in the team and feels like he is batting well. "I like the new role, I like the new ball. There are opportunities to score, get off to quicker starts, and solve problems."
New duo
Head's partnership with Weatherald
The new opening pair of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald has been a happy accident for Australia. This came after veteran Usman Khawaja was ruled out of the Brisbane Test due to back spasms. Though Khawaja regained fitness for the Adelaide affair, Head continued at the top as the former operated at number four in Steve Smith's absence.