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Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry after playing a mere six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by the tourists during the opener in Perth, before executing an incredible turnaround.

This propelled them riding a crest of confidence going into the second Test, where they delivered England a lesson on playing the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

This series remains alive, however, it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the Adelaide Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I gained an intimate view of England's approach during the last Ashes series in the UK. Despite all the talk regarding this trip being their chance to finally win a victory in Australia, existed considerable doubt among Australian pundits about the way the English team performs.

Would England's batting be suited to Australian conditions? Would they play aggressive strokes and find ways to get out? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

Right now, all of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are being proved right.

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I admire about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, because that helps them to extend the limits of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the idea that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players excel when challenged, and the best teams ensure members to account.

"Indeed, there existed support staff like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the captain and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even when a newcomer, I believed I had permission to voice my opinion. Every player assumed ownership for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out from the standard, they faced consequences by the other players. If someone made a mistake on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

We had some huge personalities - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions was for the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we united due to the affection we had for each other, such was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, obligation and adaptability collectively manifested as we walked on to the field as a team.

Certainly, these factors prove simpler when a team secures victories, which England are not doing right now.

Examining the Approach

My worry for England was the message of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had decided conditions had to adapt to them, instead of the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the loss at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they need take action about it.

I hold no issue with what the England leaders said in public at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been strong in the media, you can guarantee they have been forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the element of playing without fear. Provided England can add the ingredients of pressure and accountability, then they may still be on a viable formula.

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

Had England been informed they would face an Australia team without all of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with anticipation.

And yet, Australia pulled off victory at the Gabba with all of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

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

Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition with the gloves, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest revelation from an Australian perspective has been the change within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was essentially just one question about one area - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to open when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could face difficulty to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature in the middle order.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will mean England's Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the remainder of the series.

That is an unfortunate situation for both men. I know the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the effort that goes into coming back from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this contest. They are surely devastated.

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

Closing Thoughts

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

This time, they have 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 can win each match it plays, so for that reason this squad ought to be aiming about winning five-nil whitewash.

England understands they are compelled but to turn things around in Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be 5-0.