Former Australian players Matthew Hayden and Ricky Ponting lauded Travis Head for his impressive display on the first day of the World Test Championship final. Head smashed 163 runs off just 174 deliveries, including 25 boundaries and one six, while forging a remarkable 251-run partnership with Steve Smith.
Hayden and Ponting couldn’t help but draw comparisons between Head and their former teammate, the destructive left-handed batsman Adam Gilchrist. Hayden pointed out that Head’s performance throughout the World Championship cycle was truly outstanding. With over 1000 runs scored at a strike rate of 80+, Head achieved a remarkable feat, especially under high-pressure situations. Hayden believed that Head is currently experiencing the best form of his career and is often underrated by many.
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Ponting, the former Australian captain, also acknowledged the similarities between Head and Gilchrist. In fact, Ponting went as far as suggesting that Head might be scoring runs at a faster pace than Gilchrist did during his prime. According to Ponting, Head’s strike rate of 81 during the World Test Championship qualification period surpassed that of any other batsman who scored over 500 runs. He praised Head’s growing confidence, ability to find boundaries early on, rising strike rate, and remarkable performances over the past couple of years.
Travis Head’s exceptional century in England and his consistent performances have earned him high acclaim from former players, drawing comparisons to the legendary Adam Gilchrist. Despite any past criticisms, Head’s current form and impact on the Australian team highlight his value as a valuable asset.