Head echoes Cummins' thoughts on 'overrated' batting orders

Travis Head has labeled batting orders "slightly overrated," echoing the recent sentiment of captain Pat Cummins. Following his match-winning 123 from 83 balls in the first Ashes Test in Perth, Head emphasized that Australia's focus should be on using their batters flexibly to win matches.

"I think you could use this order and these players in a range of different ways, and whatever way that is needed to win games of cricket. I agree with Pat that batting orders are slightly overrated," Head said. "The traditionalists will say that that's how it's got to be, but this is where the game's going—when to use that and when's the right time?"

He revealed that the team has long discussed flexible scenarios based on personnel and match situations. "We've thrown out scenarios a fair bit over the last few years. It's just trying to work it out in game and in moments when that may come out and when you may use that."

Head's unexpected promotion to open the second innings in Perth caught England off guard, a move he was eager to make. "I'm very lucky to have done it a fair bit in international cricket already. I thought that my first 30 balls were really sound, and then when their game plan shifted, my mindset shifted as well. I was very calm in the situation."

On a difficult batting day, his innings against tiring English seamers proved decisive. While he has opened in Tests before—eight times in the subcontinent—this was his first opportunity at home, stepping in for an injured Usman Khawaja.

"I feel like I can play in any role, so I'm open to opening. It's all about risk evaluation and where you may lose your wicket… I've always tried to work percentages in my favour."

Shifting focus to the upcoming day-night Test in Adelaide, Head defended the format amidst debate, including questions from England's Joe Root about its necessity in the Ashes.

"I think the balls probably react a little bit differently on the wicket here compared to Adelaide, but we've played a couple here, and it's been a good venue for it. It's sold out for four days… we've embraced it. Does the Ashes need it, does it not? It's a great spectacle. Both teams will have differing opinions by the end of it."

The second Ashes Test begins on December 4.