Perth, December 14:

Ashes debutant Monty Panesar spun England back into the series on the opening day of the third Ashes Test against Australia at the WACA Ground here today, claiming five wickets as the home side were dismissed for 244.

Needing at least a draw to keep their Ashes defence alive, the tourists were energised by the finger spin of Panesar and produced some of their best bowling of the series.

The home side struck back late in the day to have England 51/2 at stumps.