A dominant Australia looked firmly on course for a 5-0 Ashes series sweep when they reached 140 for four, a lead of 311, at close of play after skittling England for 155 on the second day of the fifth test on Saturday.
Chris Rogers, who had made 73 not out, and George Bailey, unbeaten on 20, will resume on day three looking to further inflate the lead before Australia unleash their pace attack on the hapless tourists.
England’s bowlers made inroads into the Australian batting order in the final session to contribute to the 13 wickets to fall at the Sydney Cricket Ground but the day was defined by a first hour that left the tourists reeling at 23 for five.
While a dispirited England had once again contributed to their own batting downfall, Mitchell Johnson (3-33), Ryan Harris (3-36) and Peter Siddle (3-23) played decisive roles with another display of top quality pace bowling.
Australia had made 326 in their first innings before reducing England to eight for one overnight and drove home their advantage by ripping through England’s top order in the early blitz.