England are on top in the third Ashes Test against Australia after two breakthroughs during the middle session on day two in Perth on Friday.

A collapse of 35-6 saw England bowled out for 403 earlier in the day, but they struck twice at the WACA after Cameron Bancroft (25) and David Warner (22) had looked comfortable.

Craig Overton (2-31) was the pick of the England bowlers, generating some movement out of a pitch that is beginning to crack.

Australia reached tea at 88-2, still 315 runs behind, with Steve Smith (24) and Usman Khawaja (14) at the crease.

There was little movement but some variable bounce as Warner and Bancroft appeared in control, putting on 44 for the opening wicket.

But Warner edged Overton through to Jonny Bairstow before almost removing Khawaja.

Overton dived to his left and got a hand on a leading edge from Khawaja, but the paceman was unable to hold onto what would have been an incredible catch.

However, Overton would strike again thanks to a review after he hit Bancroft on the pads.

Given not out, replays showed the ball hitting the top of middle stump and Bancroft had to go to leave Australia at 55-2.

Smith appeared in fine form before surviving another fine Overton delivery just before tea, while Khawaja was steady, although he hurt himself when he slipped running between wickets.