Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald has humorously admitted there is 'always concern' for star batsman Travis Head's capacity to celebrate, following the team's decisive Ashes series victory over England.
The 48-Hour Victory Party Plans
Known as the squad's unofficial social secretary, the South Australian cult hero had reportedly been planning an epic 48-hour celebration in his hometown of Adelaide. This came to fruition after Australia secured an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series, successfully retaining the coveted urn.
The festivities began at the Adelaide Oval, where Head, the local hero, treated his teammates to jugs of his signature 'Headliner Spritz' – a watermelon-infused gin cocktail – at the aptly named Headliner Pavilion. The squad then took the party into the city, celebrating long into the night.
Bleary-Eyed Travel and Continued Revelry
By Monday morning, several members of the Australian Test team were seen looking decidedly worse for wear as they departed their hotel for Melbourne. Travis Head, however, remained in Adelaide. He was spotted later that day at the famous Penfolds wine bar with his wife, Jess, and friends, continuing the victory celebrations over lunch.
Jess Head provided a glimpse into the evening's timeline, revealing to radio station Fiveaa that the opener had finally returned home 'after 3:00am' on Monday morning, though she diplomatically declined to elaborate further.
Coach's Trust and Focus on Future Challenges
Speaking ahead of the upcoming Boxing Day Test at the MCG, Coach McDonald reflected on the balance between celebration and professionalism. 'There's always concern for Travis [Head],' he joked with reporters. However, he was quick to defend his players' right to enjoy their success.
'Nah, they've earned that. They're responsible adults and they know what they've got coming up,' McDonald stated. He emphasised the team's hunger for more success, pointing to crucial World Test Championship points on the line. 'They know there is a game at the MCG... And that is something that drives this group,' he added, expressing full confidence the squad would be ready for the next challenge.
Head himself confirmed the celebrations were 'a good night, very much enjoyed,' telling Channel 9 he expected 'a few tired heads' on the flight to Melbourne. The revelry also included a cheeky dig at England's Stuart Broad, with Head and captain Pat Cummins posting an Instagram photo with the caption 'Is it 2010 yet?' – a reference to Broad's pre-series comment about Australia's team.
The Adelaide Test held special significance for Head, who scored a magnificent 170 in the second innings. His childhood friend and South Australia teammate, Alex Carey, also scored a century. 'Doing it at Adelaide Oval, at our home grounds... It was really special,' Jess Head remarked, highlighting the personal milestone within the team's triumph.
