England face a huge task to save the fourth Ashes Test match against Australia after a batting collapse left their hosts needing 231 runs for victory.

Alastair Cook's side fell from 65-0 to 179 all out as Australia seized the initiative in Melbourne, before they returned at the end of the day to reach 30-0.

After Australia put on 40 runs at the start of Saturday's play, the tourists eased to 65-0, with Cook hitting seven boundaries to reach his half-century.

However, after the skipper went for 51, England toiled at the crease, with only Kevin Pietersen showing any prolonged resistance with 49 off 90 deliveries, before he gave his wicket away by holing out to Ryan Harris when striking the ball down the ground.

Nathan Lyon ended with figures of 5-50 as Australia were set a modest target, and their opening batsmen never looked in danger in playing out the final eight overs of the day.