Alastair Cook continues to struggle with the bat in 150th Test, but England dominate day one

Alastair Cook was dismissed for seven on day one. Credit: PA

Concerns over the form of England batsman Alastair Cook are growing after he could only make seven on day one of the Third Ashes Test in Perth.

The Essex star, who is playing in his 150th Test for his country, has only made double figures on two occasions in the series so far.

The 32-year-old was pinned LBW by fast bowler Mitchell Starc at the Waca, meaning his average for the series is currently just over 13.

Dawid Malan hit a century for England. Credit: PA

England recovered superbly though to end the day on 305-4 thanks to a brilliant 174 partnership between Dawid Malan and Jonny Bairstow.

Malan posted an unbeaten 110, while Bairstow is also still at the crease going into tomorrow's second day on 75 not out.

The tourists were 131-4 at one point, but Malan and Bairstow's stand has now given them genuine hope of a win that would keep the series alive.

England are in a strong position going into day two. Credit: ITV News Anglia

"We're in a position now when we've got one foot in the door and we need to capitalise on that tomorrow," Malan said.

"The other games we did lose and we lost comprehensively, but there were times we were on top. Australia put their foot down in those crucial moments and we weren't good enough.

"Hopefully in this game we can make sure we capitalise on the moments we're on top."