Adam Gilchrist finds a familiar spark in Travis Head’s aggressive batting style, attributing it to Australia’s potential success.

Reflecting on Travis Head’s relentless and powerful batting, Australian cricket icon Adam Gilchrist acknowledged a resemblance to his own approach. “In some ways, he’s playing very aggressively, and that was my role,” remarked Gilchrist in a conversation with ESPNcricinfo.

While likening Head’s play to Gilchrist was once considered audacious, Head’s audacious batting at No.5 in Test cricket and as an ODI opener has drawn inevitable parallels. Like Gilchrist, Head possesses a penchant for hitting the ball with force and precision, favoring square shots.

Head’s two defiant centuries in the 2021-22 Ashes series foreshadowed his aggressive style, earning him comparisons to the renowned ‘Bazball’. His momentum hasn’t waned, and he holds the unique distinction of being the only opener in ODI history with over 1000 runs, an average above 50, and a strike rate exceeding 110.

Head’s pivotal role in Australia’s World Cup aspirations was highlighted when he smashed a century off 59 balls in his return from a hand injury. Alongside David Warner, the duo hammered 118 runs in the opening powerplay, contributing significantly to Australia’s crucial victory.

This successful return vindicated the decision of Australia’s selectors to stick with Head, despite his initial unavailability due to injury. While acknowledging that players with Head’s style may not consistently achieve high scores, Gilchrist underscored the importance of making an impact in crucial moments.