Australia tightened their grip on the fifth Ashes Test after reaching 518/7 at stumps on Day 3 at the Sydney Cricket Ground, securing a 134-run first-innings lead over England. Travis Head and Steven Smith were the standout performers, batting with authority and composure to put the hosts firmly in control of the contest.

Resuming the day on 91, Head continued his aggressive approach and brought up his 12th Test century at an impressive scoring rate. He dominated England’s bowlers through the morning session, while Australia lost only one wicket as Michael Neser departed for 24. By lunch, Head had advanced to 162, with Australia adding 115 runs in the session.

Soon after lunch, Head was dismissed for a magnificent 163 by spinner Jacob Bethell, departing to a standing ovation after crossing 600 runs for the series. Steven Smith, meanwhile, anchored the innings with trademark patience and precision, guiding Australia beyond England’s total and into a decisive lead.

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Usman Khawaja provided brief support with 17 before falling, while Alex Carey and Cameron Green made useful contributions but failed to convert their starts. Smith continued to build partnerships, notably an 81-run stand with Beau Webster, which further frustrated the England attack late in the day.

Smith went on to register his 37th Test century—his first of the series—and remained unbeaten on 129 at stumps. Webster supported him well with a confident 48 not out, as Australia ended the day in a dominant position, leaving England with a challenging task to stay alive in the match.

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