Panesar: Harmison is back

Steve Harmison rediscovered his form on day one of the third Test in Perth © Getty Images

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England hero Monty Panesar claimed team-mate Steve Harmison "was back" after the pair delivered outstanding bowling performances on day one of third Ashes Test in Perth.

Panesar recorded figures of five for 92 and Harmison four for 48 as England bowled Australia out for 244 after the hosts had won the toss and chosen to bat first.

England were 51 for two at the close of play with opener Andrew Strauss (24) and Paul Collingwood (10) at the crease after Alastair Cook and Ian Bell were dismissed in quick succession.

Strike bowler Harmison had previously struggled in the Ashes series as England lost the opening two Tests but he made a timely return to form at the WACA with the wicket of Ricky Ponting the highlight of his day.

The Durham paceman made an immediate impact coming on as first change bowler when he had in-form Australia captain Ricky Ponting out lbw for two in only his third over.

England captain Andrew Flintoff congratulates Monty Panesar © Getty Images

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In the afternoon session Harmison broke a useful partnership between Mike Hussey and Michael Clarke when he held onto a sharp caught and bowled chance to dismiss Clarke for 37.

The seamer finished off the Australian innings in style when he bowled Stuart Clark with a full delivery for three and then accounted for Glenn McGrath for one in the same over when the veteran was caught at silly point.

During the day Harmison bowled in tandem with Panesar in two productive spells which were reminiscent of their stunning combination at Old Trafford earlier this year when they claimed 19 of the 20 wickets and guided England to a comprehensive victory over Pakistan.

“Steve was bowling very well today and it was fantastic to see the bounce he got out of the wicket,” enthused Panesar.

“He does help me when we bowl in tandem and it reminded me of the Old Trafford Test when we bowled together when he got some wickets.

“It’s fantastic to see that Steve Harmison is back. He’s been very positive and he hasn’t let it get to him, which just shows his strength of character.”