Australia’s dominance in the ongoing Ashes series is clearly evident, having declared with a lead of 259 after an incredible first inning total of 662 courtesy of Steve Smith’s double century and Mitchell Mark brilliant innings.

England struggled in reply, losing wickets cheaply, Alastair Cook and Root walked off for just 14 while Stoneman managed three as visitors top order collapsed in familiar fashion. James Vince played beautifully for his 55 but Mitchell Starc produced magnificent delivery to bowl him.

England's battle to save the Ashes will go into the final day of the third Test after rain brought an early end to day four in Perth. The tourists had reached 132-4, still 127 short of making Australia bat again, when the weather intervened at the Waca.