In a thrilling start to the 2025-26 Ashes series, Travis Head smashed an explosive 69-ball century to guide Australia to a commanding eight-wicket victory over England at Perth Stadium. The win gives the hosts a 1-0 lead in the five-match series and sets the tone for an intense contest ahead.

Australia’s Impressive Chase

Chasing a modest target of 205 on a lively Perth track, Australia’s makeshift opener Travis Head displayed fearless stroke play, scoring 123 runs, including 16 boundaries and four sixes. Partnering with Marnus Labuschagne, who remained unbeaten on 51, and Steve Smith on two, Head’s innings showcased his aggressive approach and ability to dominate even the most challenging bowling attacks.

Debutant Jake Weatherald joined Head in the middle and made an attacking 23 before falling to England pacer Brydon Carse. Head’s commanding presence at the crease neutralized England’s bowling threat, making light work of the bouncy Perth pitch.

England’s Collapse

England had started their second innings strongly, cruising at 65-1 and building a promising lead. However, Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc turned the game on its head after lunch, picking up four wickets in four overs. Boland’s devastating spell accounted for Ben Duckett (28), Ollie Pope (33), and Harry Brook (0) in just 11 balls, while Starc quickly dismissed Joe Root (8).

When Starc removed England captain Ben Stokes (2), the visitors were reeling at 88-6. The veteran paceman finished with a remarkable 10-wicket haul, following his career-best 7-58 in the first innings. England was partially saved by a 50-run partnership between Gus Atkinson (37) and Carse (20), but they were eventually bowled out for 164.

Head’s Heroics at the Top

With regular opener Usman Khawaja unavailable due to stiffness, Australia promoted Travis Head to open—a role he had assumed nine times previously in Test cricket. Head quickly established himself, hitting boundaries with ease, including towering sixes over Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse.

Head brought up his half-century in just 36 balls, surpassing 4,000 Test career runs in the process. His audacious stroke play kept the pressure firmly on England, leaving the crowd at Perth Stadium in awe. Head eventually fell attempting another big hit, but by then, victory was all but sealed.

Starc and Boland Shine

Mitchell Starc, who had already claimed a five-wicket haul in the first innings, picked up crucial wickets in the second innings, including the prized scalp of Joe Root. Scott Boland’s pace and precision complemented Starc’s efforts, dismantling England’s batting lineup and ensuring Australia never faced serious pressure during the chase.

The Australian duo’s relentless bowling, combined with Head’s explosive batting, highlighted the hosts’ dominance and set a high standard for the remainder of the Ashes series.

Series Outlook

Australia’s emphatic win at Perth provides them with an early psychological advantage, while England must regroup quickly to stay competitive in the series. Travis Head’s performance, alongside the potent pace attack of Starc and Boland, has already sent a clear message: the hosts are ready to defend their Ashes title with determination and flair.