Sydney, Jan. 5 -- Joe Root and Travis Head were the two defining figures on the second day of the fifth Ashes Test, producing contrasting but equally compelling innings that shaped the contest at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Root's marathon effort laid the foundation for England's dominance. Batting with composure and authority, he crafted a superb 160 off 242 balls, an innings that combined classic defence with fluent strokeplay.
Beginning the day well set, Root tightened his grip on Australia bowlers through disciplined shot selection and relentless accumulation. He reached his 41st Test hundred to warm applause and later surged past 150, drawing a standing ovation as the Barmy Army's chants echoed around the ground.
His partnerships tol...