Australia in control as Smith hammers double ton

Steve Smith and Mitchell Marsh put Australia in complete command of the third Ashes Test against England after dominating England bowlers with an unbeaten 301 run partnership for the fifth wicket. Smith scored an unbeaten 229 while Marsh smashed 181 runs off just 234 deliveries.

Australia's captain Steve Smith celebrates with Mitchell Marsh after reaching his double century against England in Perth. REUTERS/David Gray

The two came together after the dismissal of Shaun Marsh for 28 runs and the score reading 248 for four.

That was the only moment of joy for the England bowlers as Mitchell Marsh scored his maiden century while Smith notched his second double century. It is the highest partnership for Australia against England at the Waca ground in Perth.

With his 22nd Test century coming in his 107th Test knock, Smith is behind only Don Bradman (58 innings) and Sunil Gavaskar (101 innings) to have reached this landmark in fewer innings.

Australia are now 549 for four, 146 runs ahead with still two days to play.

Australia lead the series 2-0 and can regain the Ashes with victory at the Waca ground, with England's hopes of staying alive in the five-match series seemingly resting with the local weather.