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Star Australian batter Travis Head has revealed his real motivations for performing well across the ongoing Ashes series, and it's not for the reason most would think.
The South Australian plundered a knock for the ages in the second innings of the first Ashes Test, scoring 123 off 83 deliveries in a performance which helped win Australia the match.
But he's now disclosed just why he's so hell-bent on performing well this Summer.
'What's your purpose for playing cricket?', asked The Grade Cricketer podcast co-host Sam Perry.
'The Bazball movement has said they're playing for a higher purpose ... and that even when they lose, they win, so what are you guys (Australia) playing for this Summer?'
'Cash', Head bluntly replied.
Head's one word response took The Grade Cricketer podcast co-hosts Sam Perry and Ian Higgins by surprise
Head (pictured) was England's worst nightmare in Perth after scoring a blistering 123 runs in the second innings
The 31-year-old old is playing in his fourth Ashes series - and second at home
'It's a big series bonus if we win', Head added.
'It's the Ashes. I haven't deep dived into it yet but [you'd imagine it would be lucrative]'.
'We won a couple other ones (series) so I kinda know how it works here'.
His comments left both Grade Cricketer podcast hosts Sam Perry and Ian Higgins in stitches.
But they've come about after his stunning performance in Perth.
After being set a target of 205 runs to win, Head emerged at the crease from the top of the order.
He was planned to be a fill-in for Usman Khawaja, who couldn't open due back spasms.
But with the incredible performance taking place, many are claiming he should remain there for the rest of the series at least.
The Aussie batter's century in Perth was the second fastest hundred in Ashes history
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg (pictured) would have been furious with the opening Test only lasting two days
Mitchell Starc (pictured celebrating with teammates) took the first wicket on the opening delivery of the 2021/22 Ashes at The Gabba
Head's blistering innings meant the much anticipated first test of the Summer lasted less than two days, leaving Cricket Australia furious because of lost revenue.
The second Test match gets underway next Thursday at The Gabba in Brisbane.
England hasn't tasted victory on QLD soil since 1986.
But it'll be Australia's first pink ball Test at The Gabba since their famous loss to the West Indies in January 2024.
The Aussies are set to be buoyed by the return of Pat Cummins, with the Australia captain expected to replace Brendan Doggett.
Jake Weatherald will retain his place at the top of the order, after an encouraging second innings display.
But questions remain on who his opening partner will be.
Travis Head or Usman Khawaja?
