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Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams could they have believed they would be leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just only six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by England during the opener in Perth, before executing a remarkable turnaround.

This propelled them riding a crest of confidence heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave England a lesson on playing the longest format, especially day-night Test cricket.

A Critical Juncture

The contest remains alive, however, it's not far from it. If England don't win the third Test, it will get embarrassing.

I got a close look at England's style during the last Ashes series in the UK. For all of the talk regarding this trip being their chance to ultimately secure a series in Australia, there was a lot of doubt in this country concerning the manner England play.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they play aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

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

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I like about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes play without fear, because that helps them push the limits of potential.

However, I disagree with the notion that pressure or expectation should be eliminated. The great players excel when challenged, 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 dressing room."

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

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they were held accountable from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence very often - 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 our comrades. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we shared, such was the duration we spent together.

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

Certainly, these factors are easier when a team secures victories, which England are not doing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My concern regarding England was the message of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment deficient in personal responsibility.

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

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the loss at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

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

I have no issue with the statements 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 even stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the element of playing fearlessly. Provided England can incorporate the ingredients of pressure and accountability, then they might still be on to something.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia merits significant credit of credit.

Had England been informed they would face an Australia team lacking Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with anticipation.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off victory in Brisbane with each of their other players standing up.

Australian Standouts

Pacer Mitchell Starc has been exceptionally brilliant, supported by Neser, Scott Boland and Doggett.

Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, arguably the finest wicketkeeping performance I've ever seen - and I played with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation from an Australian perspective has been the shift within the top order.

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

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to open following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, there seems there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja might face difficulty to get back in, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will mean 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 required to bowl quickly, the dedication involved in coming back from injuries, and how desperate both would have been to participate fully in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

Adelaide will be a quality surface, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England came from 2-0 down to level the last Ashes. They will know England poses a threat.

This time, they have England by the throat and must not relent merely because key players are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australian side must always believe it can win every Test it contests, therefore this squad should be thinking about winning 5-0.

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