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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves 2-0 up in this historic rivalry after playing only six days of cricket.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test in Perth, then pulled off an incredible reversal.

This propelled them on a wave of confidence going into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave the English side a masterclass on playing the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

This series is not dead, however, it's perilously close. If England don't win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I got a close look of England's approach throughout the last Ashes series in the UK. For all of the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity 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 the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to get out? Would they crumble when pressure mounted of the big moments?

Right now, all of the Australian observers who were sceptical regarding England are being proved right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There is much I like regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, as this enables them push the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the notion that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams hold each other to account.

"Yes, there were the coaches like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the captain and senior players who invariably managed the dressing room."

Even when a young player, I believed I was allowed to have my say. Everyone took responsibility for the squad's performance.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they were held accountable from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake repeatedly - which didn't happen frequently - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

We had some huge personalities - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we had for each other, such was the amount of time we spent together.

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

Admittedly, all of these things prove simpler when a team secures victories, which England are not doing at this moment.

A Culture in Question

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

It seemed as if England had concluded pitches must conform to them, instead of England adapting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Finally, in the aftermath of the loss at the Gabba, it looks like the penny has dropped.

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they need to do something about it.

I hold no problems with the statements the English leadership said in public at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong in the media, one can be sure they have been forceful behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Might we witness a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I support the aspect of playing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still possess a viable formula.

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

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

And yet, Australia achieved a win at the Gabba with all of their remaining players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition with the gloves, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

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

Before the series, when it appeared there was considerable debate about the Australia line-up, I stated there was essentially just a debate about one area - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head stuck his hand up to open following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, there seems there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could face difficulty to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he could bat at number five.

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.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I know how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the dedication that goes into coming back from setbacks, and how eager both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will be a good pitch, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England came from 2-0 down to level the previous series. They will know England poses a threat.

This time, they hold England in a stranglehold and should not let up just because key players are coming back. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side should always think it can win every Test it plays, therefore this team ought to be aiming for a 5-0.

England understands they are compelled to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.