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Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams could they have believed they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current historic rivalry following just a mere six days of cricket.

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

This propelled them riding a crest of self-belief heading into the second Test, where they delivered England a masterclass on playing the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, however, it's not far from it. Should England fail to win the Adelaide Test, it will get embarrassing.

I gained a close look of England's approach throughout the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the talk regarding this trip being their chance to finally win a series down under, there was a lot of doubt in this country about the way the English team performs.

Would England's batting be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

Right now, every one of the Australian observers who were sceptical about England are being proved right.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists a lot I like about England's attitude. I love it when athletes play without fear, as this enables them push the boundaries of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the notion that pressure or expectation should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams ensure members are accountable.

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

Even as a newcomer, I believed I had permission to voice my opinion. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Then, if a player deviated of line, they were held consequences from their teammates. If an individual committed an error repeatedly - which didn't happen very often - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained several dominant characters - 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 pulled together because of the love we had for each other, so extensive was the duration we spent together.

That sense of duty, obligation and adaptability 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 was the message of a rigid style yielded a culture that lacks personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had concluded conditions had to adapt to them, rather than the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the loss in Brisbane, it appears realisation has dawned.

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

I have no issue with the statements 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 even more even stronger behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Might we witness a new version of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I support the element of playing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still possess to something.

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

Had England been informed they would play an Australia team lacking Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been delighted with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia achieved victory in Brisbane with each of their remaining players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I played with Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest revelation from an Australian perspective has been the change in the batting order.

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

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

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Batsman Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, there seems there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the opening pair.

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

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

That is a great shame for both men. I understand the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the dedication that goes into recovering from injuries, and how desperate both players were to play a full part in this contest. They are surely devastated.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to captain the side.

The Final Word

Australia recalls how England came from 2-0 down to draw the last Ashes. They are aware England are dangerous.

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

An Australia team must always believe it is capable of winning every Test it contests, therefore this squad ought to be aiming about winning 5-0.

England will know they have no choice but to turn things around at Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.