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Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just only six days of play.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test in Perth, before executing a remarkable turnaround.

It put them on a wave of self-belief heading into the second Test, where they gave England a lesson on playing the longest format, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series is not dead, however, it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the third Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I gained a close look at England's style during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory in Australia, existed considerable doubt in this country about the way England play.

Would England's batting be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and discover methods to get out? Would they crumble when pressure mounted of the big moments?

At present, every one of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists a lot I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when athletes play without fear, because that helps them to extend the boundaries of potential.

But I don't like the idea that external pressure or expectation needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and the best teams hold each other are accountable.

"Yes, there were support staff like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the captain and senior players who invariably managed the dressing room."

Even as a young player, I believed I had permission to have my say. Everyone took ownership for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out of line, they faced consequences by the other players. If an individual committed an error on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that what we were doing was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we united due to the affection we shared, so extensive was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, obligation and flexibility all came together as we walked onto the pitch as a team.

Admittedly, these factors are easier while a side secures victories, a scenario England are currently not experiencing right now.

A Culture in Question

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

It seemed that England had decided conditions had to adapt to them, rather than England adapting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the loss at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum acknowledged there are issues, and they must take action about it.

I hold no issue with the statements the England leaders made publicly at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been strong publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more even stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the element of competing fearlessly. If England can add the ingredients of embracing pressure and accountability, then they might still be on a viable formula.

For all that England have been criticised, Australia deserve significant credit for their performance.

If England had been told they would face an Australia team lacking their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with anticipation.

And yet, Australia achieved a win at the Gabba with all of their other players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven absolutely outstanding, supported by Neser, Scott Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery for Australia is the shift in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I stated there was essentially just one question about one area - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That debate is now resolved, simply not in the manner anyone predicted.

Settling the Order

From the moment Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could find it tough to get back in, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature in the middle order.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the effort involved in coming back from injuries, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this contest. They will be heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, offering something for batters and bowlers. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England recovered from a two-nil deficit to draw the last Ashes. They are aware England poses a threat.

On this occasion, they hold England by the throat and should not let up merely because some big names are coming back. They cannot get complacent.

An Australia team should always think it is capable of winning each match it contests, therefore this squad ought to be aiming about winning 5-0.

England understands they are compelled to reverse their fortunes at Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to 5-0.