England face a fight to keep their Ashes hopes alive after once again suffering at the hands of Steve Smith.

Smith hit an imperious double century on the second day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford to put the tourists on course for a potential Ashes-clinching victory.

With the series level at 1-1, Australia will retain the urn with victory in Manchester, regardless of the result of next week’s final Test at the Oval.

Smith hit 211 – his third century of the series – as Australia declared on a formidable 497 for eight in their first innings. England made a poor start in reply, losing Joe Denly for just four, ending the day on 23 for one.

Rain meant day three would only get underway after lunch.

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