Australian batsman Travis Head has kicked off his English summer in style, producing a dominant unbeaten display on the opening day of the World Test Championship Final against India.
The left-hander arrived at the crease with the Aussies' first innings in the balance at 3/76, but never looked as though he felt any pressure as he settled into his groove and played a trademark counter-attacking knock.
Head finished the day's play with an unbeaten 146* from just 156 balls, blasting 22 boundaries and one maximum, partnering with Steve Smith (95*) to give the side a strong platform at 3/327 at the close of play at The Oval.
The 29-year-old has never been able to conquer UK soil with a century throughout his career, but he put Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum and the entire England team on notice in London.
Travis Head's technical changes result in powerful display
Speaking to the media after the opening day of play, Head opened up on the changes to his technique leading to a consistent run in the Test lineup, and his desire to cement himself as a player who can perform in any conditions.
“Technically I have made those changes, not just for England, but for all around [the world]," he said.
"There are certain parts of your game that you adapt in each condition that you go to, but the foundations that are set and my technique have certainly changed a lot since 2019.
"I’ve felt like coming here, I was in a better place – but you can never guarantee anything. It’s nice to prepare well and have the last couple of weeks over here… it’s a nice start to a summer.
"I know certain decisions haven't gone my way in the past, but I felt like I've got a fair bit to contribute to this team and valued within the team.
"That doesn't always guarantee playing. Selection's not going to go your way sometimes... but [I feel] entrenched within the Australian cricket team, that I've got the backing of the staff and the captain and the players."
Since the last time Head played red-ball cricket in the UK, his average in the Test arena is 50.09, scoring seven half-centuries and five centuries for Australia.
Travis Head praises Steve Smith for polar opposite partnership
While the strikepower from Head will make all the highlight reels, the gritty performance from the man at the other end can't be discounted.
Smith put in a marathon stint at the crease on day one, facing over 220 balls as he closes in on another Test century, continuing his stellar run at The Oval.
Head believes the balance between the pair was optimal for the conditions against India.
“We don’t talk too much, but I’ve always said that I do really enjoy batting with Steve because of how much attention he receives," he said.
"He is obviously one of the best players in the world and probably our best player. He receives so much attention from the opposition in terms of plans and how difficult he is to bowl to.
"I’ve always felt like going out to bat with him, it feels like you’re in the shadow of that and you can sneak under the radar and go about your business, because he has drawn so much attention.
"It felt like that again today… we got in that rhythm and went about our business. I think we complement each other really well and really differently, and in that partnership it works really nicely."
