Travis Head pips star duo to win second-straight Allan Border Medal

Travis Head has secured his second consecutive Allan Border Medal, reaffirming his status as Australia's premier male cricketer. The star batter clinched the award by a single vote over his South Australian teammate Alex Carey, with Ashes standout Mitchell Starc rounding out the top three. The prestigious medal ceremony, usually held in Melbourne, took place in Brisbane this year, six months later than its typical schedule due to international playing commitments. Head's consistent performance across formats, including a remarkable 123 in the opening Ashes Test and a 170 in Adelaide, earned him the top honor. Carey also had a career-best season, scoring 1,079 runs and excelling behind the stumps with 28 dismissals in the Ashes. Meanwhile, Mitchell Starc, despite retiring from T20 internationals to focus on Tests and ODIs, received the Shane Warne Test player of the year award. Mitchell Marsh was recognized for his ODI performances, and Tim David was named Australia's best T20 player. Head joins an elite group of cricketers who have won the Allan Border Medal multiple times.