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Not in Australia's most optimistic hopes could they have believed they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current Ashes series following just only six days of play.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists during the opener in Perth, then pulled off an incredible turnaround.

This propelled them on a wave of self-belief going into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a lesson on playing the longest format, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

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

I gained an intimate view of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the talk regarding this trip being their chance to finally win a series in Australia, there was a lot of scepticism in this country concerning the manner England play.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and discover methods to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, every one of the Australian observers who expressed doubts regarding England are seeing their views right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I like about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them to extend the limits of potential.

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

"Indeed, there existed support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and experienced players who always ran the dressing room."

Even as a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to voice my opinion. Every player assumed ownership of the team.

Then, if someone stepped out from the standard, they faced consequences by the other players. If someone made a mistake on more than one occasion - which didn't happen very often - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

We had some huge personalities - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions 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 duration we spent together.

That sense of duty, responsibility and flexibility all came together when we stepped onto the pitch as a team.

Certainly, all of these things are easier when a team is winning, a scenario England are not doing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment deficient in personal responsibility.

It seemed as if England had concluded conditions had to adapt to their game, instead of the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

Captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged there are issues, and they must take action to address them.

I hold no problems with the statements the England leaders said in public after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Might we witness a new version of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I support the aspect of playing fearlessly. Provided England can add the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia deserve a huge amount for their performance.

If England had been told they would play an Australian side without all of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been delighted with glee.

And yet, Australia pulled off a win at the Gabba with each of their remaining players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

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

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

Perhaps the biggest revelation for Australia has been the change within the top order.

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

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

Settling the Order

From the moment Travis Head volunteered to open when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, it appears there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to regain his place, 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 will miss the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

This represents a great shame for both athletes. I understand how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the dedication involved in recovering from injuries, and how eager both players were to participate fully in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to lead.

The Final Word

Australia will remember how England came from a two-nil deficit to draw the previous series. They are aware England poses a threat.

On this occasion, they hold England in a stranglehold and should not relent just because some big names are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australia team should always think it can win every Test it plays, so for that reason this squad ought to be aiming 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 5-0.