‘Player of the Match’ Travis Head celebrate World Test Championship Final win with family

Australia left-handed batter Travis Head was adjudged the Player of the Match in the 2023 ICC World Test Championship Final against India.

Head displayed exceptional batting performances in the one-off Test match, scoring 163 and 18 runs, surpassing the impressive displays of Steve Smith and Alex Carey. As a result, he was awarded the coveted accolade, while Australia secured a commanding 209-run victory.

Head stepped onto the crease during a challenging situation for Australia, with the team at 76/3 on the first day at The Oval. However, he joined forces with Smith (121), and together they built a remarkable partnership of 285 runs, shifting the momentum in their team’s favour.

Head showcased his aggressive batting style, attacking any overpitched deliveries and fearlessly taking on short-pitched deliveries.

Although India altered their bowling strategy while facing the dynamic No.5 batsman in Australia’s second innings, it was Head’s crucial innings on the opening day of the captivating match in south London that proved to be a game-changer in determining the result of the match.

In the post-match presentation, the talented batter stated that it took some time for him to find the “blueprint” in Test cricket, and he is trying to be as consistent as possible.

“It’s amazing. A lot of hard work over two years. [Positive] has been the approach for two years. I wanted to be proactive and score if the balls were there and then if they bowl in nice areas you try and be good enough to stay out there for long periods,” Head was quoted as saying to the broadcasters after Australia’s win.

“I was tested through my innings. It was nice to be able to bat as well as we did with [Steve Smith]. It was an amazing Test from him. I’ve always had the confidence. It’s been about going out there and expressing that. It took me some time to find a blueprint in first-class cricket and Test cricket. I’ve always been open to change. Always been committed to knowing what I needed to do to step up. I’ve bedded down some what. I’m trying to be as consistent as I possibly can for the team,” he added.

After reaching the dressing room, Head celebrated the WTC Final win with his wife Jessica Davies and their little daughter Milla. The trio was spotted having a good time with the Test mace.