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Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in the current Ashes series following just a mere six days of play.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, then pulled off an incredible reversal.

This propelled them riding a crest of self-belief going into the second Test, where they gave the English side a masterclass on playing the longest format, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series is not dead, but it's not far from it. Should England don't win the third Test, it will get embarrassing.

I gained a close look of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series down under, existed considerable doubt among Australian pundits about the way the English team performs.

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

Right now, all of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are seeing their views validated.

Mindset and Responsibility

There is a lot I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, because that helps them push the boundaries of what is possible.

But I don't like the idea that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed support staff like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who always ran the dressing room."

Even when a young player, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Every player assumed responsibility for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out from the standard, they were held accountable from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that what we were doing served the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together because of the love we shared, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

That sense of duty, obligation and flexibility collectively manifested when we stepped onto the pitch as a team.

Admittedly, all of these things prove simpler when a team is winning, a scenario England are not doing at this moment.

A Culture in Question

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

It seemed that England had concluded conditions had to adapt to their game, instead of the team adjusting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the defeat at the Gabba, it appears realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they must to do something about it.

I have no issue with what the English leadership made publicly after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, you can guarantee they have been forceful in private meetings.

A New Version?

Will we now see an evolved form of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of playing without fear. Provided England can add the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still be on to something.

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

If England had been told they would face an Australian side lacking Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been delighted with glee.

And yet, Australia achieved a win in Brisbane with each of their remaining players standing up.

Australian Standouts

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

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

Perhaps the biggest discovery for Australia has been the shift in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I said there was essentially just one question concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion has been settled, just not in a way anyone expected.

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, it appears there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to get back in, despite the 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 Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the remainder of the series.

That is an unfortunate situation for both men. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the effort involved in recovering from injuries, and how desperate both would have been to participate fully in this contest. They are surely devastated.

The Adelaide Oval will be a good pitch, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to lead.

The Final Word

Australia recalls how England came from a two-nil deficit to level the last Ashes. They will know England are dangerous.

This time, they have England in a stranglehold and should not let up merely because some big names are coming back. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australia team should always think it can win every Test it contests, therefore this team should be thinking for a five-nil whitewash.

England will know they are compelled but to turn things around at Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to 5-0.