Head's century leaves Australia in complete control

Travis Head scored his fourth century in as many Tests at the Adelaide Oval, an unbeaten 142 that powered Australia to a commanding lead of 356 runs. His 11th Test hundred, built through partnerships with Usman Khawaja and an unbroken century stand with Alex Carey, tightened Australia's grip on the Ashes.

England's lone chance came when Head was on 99, but Harry Brook dropped a difficult catch at gully. Head's innings was marked by calm authority, soft hands, and selective power, particularly against the offspin of Will Jacks.

Earlier, England's resistance was led by Ben Stokes, who ground his way to 83, and Jofra Archer, who scored a maiden Test fifty. Their 106-run ninth-wicket stand trimmed the first-innings deficit before Australia's bowlers, led by Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland, wrapped up the England innings.

In Australia's second innings, England briefly reduced the hosts to 53 for 2, but Head quickly shut the door on any comeback. With Stokes unable to bowl, England relied heavily on Jacks' offspin, which proved expensive, conceding 107 runs in 19 overs.

Alex Carey, who struck a hundred in the first innings, moved to 52 by stumps, with Australia now eyeing a target beyond England's reach.

Brief scores:
Australia 371 & 271/4 (Travis Head 142*, Alex Carey 52*; Josh Tongue 2-59) lead England 286 (Ben Stokes 83, Jofra Archer 51; Scott Boland 3-45, Pat Cummins 3-69) by 356 runs.