Why is Travis Head not playing in England vs Australia 3rd ODI?

In a significant development, Australia have dropped Travis Head for the all-important third One-Day International against England at Riverside Ground in Chester-Le-Street. England captain Harry Brook won the toss and opted to capitalise on the initial seam-friendly conditions by bowling first. Meanwhile, Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh revealed that Head wouldn't participate in this game, with Cameron Green replacing him in the lineup. 

Australian captain Mitchell Marsh revealed that Travis Head would sit out this game due to soreness. Additionally, the visitors will be without their star leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who has been sidelined due to illness. In their absence, promising all-rounder Cameron Green will replace Head, while fast bowler Sean Abbott steps in for Zampa.

Renowned for his scintillating stroke play, Travis Head was in brilliant form during the first ODI at Trent Bridge, leading Australia to a dominant seven-wicket victory with a remarkable century. Opening the innings, Head hammered 154 runs off just 129 balls, smashing 20 boundaries and five massive sixes. His extraordinary knock helped Australia chase down a challenging 316-run target in just 44 overs with seven wickets in hand.

In the following game at Headingley, Head continued his fine form, playing a brisk cameo of 29 runs. Although he couldn't convert his start into a bigger score, he looked in excellent touch until Brydon Carse dismissed him with a short-pitched delivery.

Given Head's red-hot form, England will likely feel relieved that he won’t be available for the much-anticipated third ODI. After heavy defeats in the first two matches, the hosts will be eager to break their losing streak and stay alive in the series.