Australia tightened their grip on the final Test of the Ashes 2025–26 after an authoritative batting display on Day 3 in Sydney. Travis Head’s explosive 163 and Steve Smith’s composed 129 not out helped the hosts overhaul England’s first-innings total of 384 and build a commanding 134-run lead with three wickets still in hand at stumps.

England’s problems were compounded by a poor day in the field, dropping four catches, three of them off Head, allowing Australia to maintain momentum throughout the day. Despite a tireless effort from Brydon Carse (3/108), England’s bowlers struggled to apply sustained pressure as Australia scored at nearly four runs per over.

Head resumed on 91 and wasted little time bringing up his 12th Test century, racing to the landmark in just 105 balls. He added a valuable 72-run stand with Michael Neser before accelerating further, eventually falling for 163 after a brutal assault featuring 24 fours and a six. His dismissal shortly after lunch did little to slow Australia, as Smith then took control.

Smith, batting with trademark assurance, reached his 37th Test century and achieved a major Ashes milestone. With his 13th Ashes hundred, he moved past England legend Jack Hobbs and now trails only Don Bradman on the all-time Ashes centuries list. He also surpassed Rahul Dravid to climb to sixth place among the highest Test century-makers overall.

Late contributions from Cameron Green and an unbeaten 42 from Beau Webster further strengthened Australia’s position, pushing the lead beyond 100 runs. With Smith set to resume on Day 4, Australia will look to stretch their advantage past the 600-run mark and put England under immense pressure heading into the final phase of the Test.