Published By: Sayan Guha

BGT 2024/25: Travis Head at the Gabba- India’s Bane and Brisbane’s Darling

Credit: Cricketnmore

From tormenting India to dazzling Brisbane crowds, Head’s exploits are the stuff of legend

Travis Head has been a recurrent nightmare for India. Whether it's a World Cup final or a crucial Test, the dashing left-hander appears to have mastered the art of breaking hearts. His undefeated 137 in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup final gave Australia its record sixth victory, while his blistering 163 in the ICC World Test Championship final earlier that year dashed India's title ambitions.

 

And just when India thought they'd seen the last of his rampage, Head lit up the Adelaide Oval in their Day-Night Test, scoring a century (140 off 141) off just 111 balls. As the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test looms at the Gabba, it's only natural that we recall his most memorable performance at the legendary venue.

A Gabba specialist

It's no secret that Head loves the Gabba. In only five games at this venue, he has scored a century and two half-centuries, confirming his status as a game-changer on the bouncy Brisbane ground. Let's look at his top three innings, which left the opposition reeling.

The England mauling (152 off 148, 2021)

Travis Head was at his explosive best in the opening Ashes Test of 2021. England had been knocked out for 147, and Australia had a comfortable lead in the second innings. But Head was not in the mood to hang up.

Walking in at 195-5, he counterattacked with a flurry of boundaries, reaching 152 off only 148 balls. His performance, which included 14 fours and four sixes, came at a blazing strike rate of 102.70, helping Australia win by nine wickets. It not only demoralised England but also set the tone for Australia's overwhelming Ashes campaign.

A gritty 92 against South Africa (2022)

During South Africa's 2022 trip, the Gabba pitch became a bowler's dream. While other batters struggled, Head stood out, scoring a vital 92 from 96 balls in Australia's opening innings.

Faced with an intense Proteas pace assault headed by Kagiso Rabada, Head displayed his tenacity and attacking instinct. His knock contained 13 boundaries and a six, helping Australia secure a crucial lead in a low-scoring thriller. The hosts finally won by six wickets, and Head's challenging performance earned him Player of the Match.

The Sri Lankan stalwart (84 off 187, 2019)

In 2019, Head delivered a patient innings against Sri Lanka on the difficult Gabba surface. Coming in at 82-4, he stabilised the innings with a calm 84 off 187 balls, forming an important partnership with Marnus Labuschagne.

Although this innings lacked the flamboyance of his previous performances, it demonstrated Head's versatility. His ability to anchor the innings was crucial to Australia's sweeping innings victory.

What makes Head tick at the Gabba?

Head benefits greatly from the Gabba's speed and bounce. His daring stroke play, and a keen eye for quick scoring possibilities transform him into a formidable opponent. Furthermore, his ability to reverse the tide under pressure has given him a particular position in Australian cricket history.

Eyes on the next chapter

Travis Head will be the centre of attention for the next Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test at the Gabba. Can he torment India again? Will the visitors find a way to keep the left-hander quiet?

One thing is certain: if history is any indication, Head will be prepared to give another masterclass in his favourite Brisbane.