Back in 2016, the legendary spin wizard Shane Warne predicted that Travis Head would become an all-format future star for Australia. On Sunday, November 19, Head proved Warnie right by showcasing his match-winning prowess with a stunning 137 runs, steering Australia to its 6th World Cup title, triumphing over the unbeaten India.
I'm a big fan of Travis Head as a cricketer, I believe he will be a future star for Australia in all forms of the game @wwos !!
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) December 6, 2016
His heroic performance in the final was preceded by being awarded the Player of the Match in the semis against South Africa, where he dismissed Klassen and Jansen and scored a formidable 62 off 48, chasing South Africa's total of 212. Head's skills and determination were on full display.
Reflecting on the moment, Head expressed, "It's hard to put into words how it felt. I felt so in control with 'Marn' (Marnus Labuschagne) out there. We spoke today about not leaving anything on the table and not leaving anything to chance."
Twice in the same year, Travis Head has played an all-time innings in a big world final against India. If the WTC knock at The Oval was special, this one, is extraordinary & the quietest reception you’ll ever hear for a World Cup final century #IndvAus #CWC23
— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) November 19, 2023
Travis Head's return to white-ball cricket in 2022, sporting his signature Aussie moustache after a hiatus, underscores his resolute determination and adaptability.
His explosive century against Pakistan in the ODIs at the Gaddafi Stadium and a remarkable partnership with David Warner against England at the MCG established his position in limited-overs cricket.
The journey to the World Cup squad wasn't without challenges for Head. Nursing a broken hand just weeks before the tournament, his inclusion was a risky decision that eventually paid off spectacularly.
Captain Pat Cummins praised, "He had a broken finger, a broken hand for half of the tournament, but to keep him in the squad was a huge risk."
"Trav, the player we've seen in Test cricket, just epitomised everything I want out of a cricket team," Cummins added.
Though Marnus and Zampa were anticipated to excel for Australia, it was Head who emerged as the standout performer. His recent performance in the World Cup final suggests that he might carry this momentum into the upcoming T20 series against India, commencing on November 23, despite not having a flashy IPL contract to his name.