Ashes-holders England were 289 for seven at stumps on the first day, having been in dire straits at 28 for three when Bell came in.

Yet just when it seemed England had regained control, part-time leg-spinner Steven Smith took three wickets for 18 runs in six overs late in the day.

Tim Bresnan was seven not out and nightwatchman James Anderson four not out at the close.

Bell's 109 was the same score as he made in the second innings of England's 14-run first Test win at Trent Bridge last week, with both these centuries following his 115 in the final match of the 2010/11 Ashes in Sydney.

The 31-year-old was the fourth Englishman to score centuries in three consecutive Ashes Tests after Jack Hobbs, who did it twice, in 1911/12 and 1924/25, Walter Hammond in 1928/29 and Chris Broad, whose son Stuart was in England's side Thursday, in 1986/87.

Bell, together with Warwickshire colleague Jonathan Trott (58) and Jonny Bairstow (67), shared partnerships of 99 and 144.

Yet England's grip was loosened when Smith dismissed Bell, Bairstow and Matt Prior.

After tea, Bell edged a leg-break to Clarke at slip to end a more than five hour innings including 16 fours.

Then 271 for five became 274 for six when Bairstow, still to score a Test century, carelessly chipped a Smith full toss straight back to the bowler.

Smith's purple patch of three wickets for 12 runs in 22 balls continued when Prior was caught behind by Haddin. (AFP)