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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they would be 2-0 up in this historic rivalry following just a mere six days of play.

They were placed under severe pressure by England during the opener in Perth, then pulled off an incredible reversal.

This propelled them on a wave of self-belief going into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered the English side a masterclass on playing the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, but it's perilously close. If England don't win the Adelaide Test, it will get embarrassing.

I gained a close look of England's approach during the last Ashes series on English soil. For all of the talk about this tour being their chance to ultimately secure a series down under, existed a lot of scepticism among Australian pundits about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they attempt big shots and discover methods to get out? Might they collapse under the pressure during crucial phases?

At present, every one of the Australians who were sceptical regarding England are seeing their views validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists a lot I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them push the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams hold each other are accountable.

"Yes, there were support staff such as Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the captain and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even when a young player, I felt like I was allowed to have my say. Everyone took responsibility for the squad's performance.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out from the standard, they were held consequences from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence very often - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

We had several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions was for the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together because of the love we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

That accountability, responsibility and adaptability all came together as we walked on to the field as a unit.

Admittedly, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, which England are currently not experiencing right now.

Examining the Approach

My concern for England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had decided pitches must conform to their game, rather than the team adjusting their strategy to the prevailing conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the loss in Brisbane, it looks like realisation has dawned.

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

I have no problems with what the England leaders made publicly at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong in the media, one can be sure they have been even stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of playing without fear. If England can incorporate the ingredients of embracing pressure and accountability, then they might still be on a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits a huge amount for their performance.

If England had been told they would play an Australian side without all of Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt delighted with anticipation.

And yet, Australia achieved a win in Brisbane with all of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

Mitchell Starc has proven exceptionally brilliant, ably assisted by Neser, Scott Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition with the gloves, arguably the finest wicketkeeping performance I've ever seen - and I played with Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest revelation for Australia has been the shift within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was only really one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion is now resolved, just not in a way anyone expected.

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the opening pair.

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

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Injuries will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the rest of the series.

That is a great shame for both men. I understand how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the effort that goes into recovering from setbacks, and how desperate both would have been to participate fully in this series. They are surely devastated.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, with something in it for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England came from a two-nil deficit to draw the last Ashes. They are aware England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they hold England in a stranglehold and should not let up just because some big names are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australia team should always think it is capable of winning each match it plays, so for that reason this squad ought to be aiming about winning five-nil whitewash.

England understands they have no choice but to turn things around in Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to 5-0.