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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this Ashes series after playing only six days of cricket.

They were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, then pulled off an incredible reversal.

This propelled them riding a crest of confidence heading into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a lesson in how to play Test cricket, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, however, it's perilously close. If England don't win the third Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I gained an intimate view at England's style during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. For all of the talk about this tour being their chance to finally win a series down under, there was a lot of doubt in this country concerning the manner England play.

Would England's batting be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

Right now, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts about England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

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

However, I disagree with the notion that external pressure or expectation needs to be removed. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

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

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

Then, if a player deviated of line, they were held consequences from their teammates. If someone made an error repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

We had some huge personalities - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that what we were doing was for the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together because of the love we shared, such was the duration we spent together.

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

Admittedly, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, a scenario England are not doing right now.

Examining the Approach

My concern regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in personal responsibility.

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

Finally, following the result of the defeat in Brisbane, it looks like the penny has dropped.

Both Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they need to do something about it.

I have no issue with the statements the English leadership said in public after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright in the media, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I like the element of playing fearlessly. If England can incorporate the ingredients of pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still possess a viable formula.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit for their performance.

Had England been informed they would face an Australian side without all of their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been delighted with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia achieved a win in Brisbane with each of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition with the gloves, arguably the finest display of keeping I have witnessed - and I played with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

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

Before the series, when there seemed to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was essentially just one question concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That debate has been settled, just not in the manner anyone predicted.

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, it appears 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 indicated 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 being absent for the third Test and the remainder of the series.

This represents a great shame for both athletes. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in coming back from setbacks, and how desperate both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be heartbroken.

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

The Final Word

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

This time, they have England by the throat and must not relent just because key players are returning. They cannot becoming overconfident.

An Australia team must always believe it can win every Test it contests, so for that reason this squad should be thinking for a 5-0.

England understands they have no choice to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.