Travis Head and Steve Smith seized control for Australia on the third day of the final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Head's aggressive century, his third of the series, and Smith's composed, unbeaten century allowed Australia to build a substantial first-innings lead of 134 runs against England.

Australia ended the day at 518-7, responding to England's first innings total of 384. Beau Webster remained not out on 42, forming an 81-run partnership with Smith for the eighth wicket, which further extended Australia's advantage.

Head resumed play on Tuesday at 91 and was eventually dismissed for 163 off 166 balls. His innings followed his earlier successes in the series, including a match-winning 123 in Perth and 170 in Adelaide. Smith, who remained unbeaten on 129 at stumps, celebrated his first century of the series. This was Smith's 13th century in Ashes Tests and his 37th overall, placing him sixth on the all-time list of Test century-makers. It was also his fifth at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Smith said he enjoys batting at the Sydney Cricket Ground. He also noted the good partnerships during the day and expressed hope that Australia could extend their lead past 200 to exploit the wicket's increasing variability. Head reached his century in just 105 balls, becoming the first Australian opener since Matthew Hayden in 2002-03 to score three centuries in an Ashes series. Head's aggressive innings included 17 boundaries. However, he was dropped on 121 by Will Jacks off Brydon Carse's bowling.

Usman Khawaja, in his final Test match after announcing his retirement, received a standing ovation when he came to the crease. However, he was dismissed for 17. Michael Neser contributed 24 runs as nightwatchman, while Cameron Green added 37.

England's bowlers faced difficulties on a pitch favorable to batting, especially as the day progressed. Matthew Potts faced particular punishment, conceding 141 runs in 25 overs.