Carey struck a composed 106 in front of family and friends, helping Australia reach 326 for 8 at stumps, just months after his father Gordon Carey died following a battle with leukaemia.

 

The 34-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, who impressed behind the stumps in the second Test in Brisbane, produced a timely innings with the bat in what was his third Test century and first in an Ashes series.

 

After reaching the milestone, Carey punched the air and looked to the heavens as his wife Eloise was seen sobbing in the stands, highlighting the emotional significance of the moment.

 

Carey later described the century as a special moment, admitting the emotions surrounding the innings made it difficult to fully explain his feelings.

 

He explained that his father played the biggest role in his cricketing journey, coaching him throughout his early years before allowing him more independence as he grew older, while still offering advice and encouragement.

 

Carey’s 106 from 143 balls helped Australia recover after losing two wickets in the first over after lunch, before Usman Khawaja departed for a gritty 82.

 

He steadied the innings through key partnerships with Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, guiding the hosts out of trouble as they target an unassailable 3–0 series lead.

 

Carey said Australia had found itself in a difficult position immediately after lunch, adding that building a partnership with Khawaja was crucial in keeping the team in the contest.

 

He also acknowledged that while he would have liked to score more runs and bat longer, the moment of reaching his hundred in front of family and friends was especially meaningful.

 

Khawaja was a late inclusion, drafted into the side after Steve Smith withdrew with illness shortly before the toss. The veteran came in at number four after earlier being overlooked as an opener in favour of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald, a decision that had led some to question his future in the side.

 

However, Carey expressed confidence in Khawaja, saying the experienced batter still had plenty to offer the team, as shown by his performance on the opening day.