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Not in Australia's most optimistic hopes could they have believed they'd find themselves leading two-nil in the current Ashes series after playing a mere six days of cricket.

They were placed under severe pressure by the tourists during the opener in Perth, before executing an incredible reversal.

It put them on a wave of self-belief heading into the second Test, where they gave the English side a masterclass in how to play the longest format, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

The contest is not dead, but it's perilously close. If England fail to win the third Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I gained an intimate view of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes in the UK. Despite all the talk about this tour being their chance to ultimately secure a victory in Australia, there was considerable doubt among Australian pundits concerning the manner the English team performs.

Would England's batting be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they play aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

At present, every one of the Australian observers who were sceptical regarding England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There is much I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, as this enables them push the boundaries of what is possible.

But I don't like the idea that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches such as Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the captain and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even when a newcomer, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Everyone took responsibility for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out from the standard, they faced accountable by the other players. If an individual committed an error repeatedly - which didn't happen very often - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

We had several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the legendary 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 had for each other, such was the amount of time we spent together.

That sense of duty, obligation and adaptability all came together as we walked onto the pitch as a unit.

Admittedly, these factors are easier while a side secures victories, a scenario 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 that lacks accountability.

It was almost as if England had decided conditions had to adapt to their game, instead of the team adjusting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the loss in Brisbane, it appears the penny has dropped.

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

I have no problems with what the England leaders said in public at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been strong in the media, one can be sure they have been forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness a new version of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I support the aspect of playing fearlessly. Provided England can incorporate the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still be on a viable formula.

For all that England have been criticised, Australia merits significant credit of credit.

Had England had been told they would face an Australian side without all of their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been delighted with anticipation.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off victory at the Gabba with each of their other players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven absolutely outstanding, ably assisted by Neser, Scott Boland and Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass with the gloves, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Healy and Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation from an Australian perspective is the shift in the batting order.

Before the series, when it appeared there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was essentially just a debate concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to open following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, there seems there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the rest of the series.

That is an unfortunate situation for both men. I understand how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the effort that goes into recovering from injuries, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be devastated.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a quality surface, offering something for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to lead.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England recovered from 2-0 down to draw the last Ashes. They will know England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and should not let up just because key players are returning. They cannot becoming overconfident.

An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning every Test it contests, therefore this team ought to be aiming about winning five-nil whitewash.

England understands they are compelled but to turn things around at Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.