Australian batter Travis Head etched his name in cricket history by becoming the first player to achieve the rare feat of scoring a century and recording a “King Pair” at the same venue in the same calendar year. The milestone came at The Gabba during the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, solidifying Head’s reputation as a dominant force in high-stakes matches.
Earlier this year, The Gabba wasn’t a happy hunting ground for Head. Facing the West Indies in a day-night Test, he was dismissed for golden ducks in both innings, earning the dreaded “King Pair.” However, his fortunes turned dramatically when he returned to the same venue against India.
Head unleashed an explosive innings against his favorite opposition, hammering 152 runs and dismantling India’s bowling attack. His trademark aggressive style was on full display as he dictated terms on a pitch initially favoring the bowlers. Head’s calculated onslaught transformed the game, turning a bowler’s paradise into their nightmare.
Before being dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah, Head celebrated his ninth Test century and third against India. His brilliant 152-run performance not only helped Australia wrest control of the match but also set the stage for his historic feat. Head became the first batter to notch a King Pair and a century at the same venue in the same year, a testament to his resilience and skill.
Head’s numbers against India reflect his sheer dominance. In 13 Tests and 22 innings, the left-hander has amassed 1,107 runs at an impressive average of 52.71, including three centuries and four fifties. Across all formats, in 30 matches, he has scored 1,707 runs at an average of 47.41, with four centuries and six fifties.
Notably, Head has thrived in high-pressure games. He has scored centuries in pivotal matches, including the ICC World Test Championship final, the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final, and now in the series-levelling pink-ball Test at Adelaide. His recent form against India has been exceptional, with 880 runs in his last 11 innings at an average of 80, including four centuries and two fifties.