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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they would be leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry after playing a mere six days of cricket.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists during the opener in Perth, then pulled off a remarkable reversal.

It put them on a wave of confidence going into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave England a masterclass in how to play Test cricket, especially pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest is not dead, but it's not far from it. If England don't win the third Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I got an intimate view at England's style throughout the last Ashes series in the UK. For all of the talk regarding this trip being their chance to ultimately secure a series down under, there was considerable scepticism among Australian pundits concerning the manner the English team performs.

Would England's batting be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and find ways to get out? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

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

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists much I admire about England's attitude. I love it when athletes play without fear, because that helps them to extend the limits of potential.

But I don't like the idea that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams hold each other are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed support staff like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and senior players who always ran the dressing room."

Even as a young player, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Subsequently, should 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 frequently - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

Our team contained some huge personalities - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed 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 had for each other, such was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, obligation and adaptability all came together when we stepped onto the pitch as a unit.

Certainly, these factors are easier when a team secures victories, a scenario England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

A Culture in Question

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

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

Finally, in the aftermath of the loss at the Gabba, it appears realisation has dawned.

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

I have no problems with what 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 stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

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

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit of credit.

Had England had been told they would play an Australian side lacking Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt delighted with glee.

And yet, Australia achieved a win at the Gabba with all of their other players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven exceptionally brilliant, supported by Michael Neser, Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest revelation from an Australian perspective is the shift within the top order.

Before the series, when there seemed there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I said there was only really one question concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That debate is now resolved, just not in the manner anyone expected.

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja could face difficulty 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 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 a great shame for both men. I know how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the effort involved in recovering from injuries, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this contest. They will be devastated.

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

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England recovered from 2-0 down to draw the last Ashes. They will know England are dangerous.

This time, they have England in a stranglehold and must not relent just because key players are coming back. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning each match it contests, so for that reason this team ought to be aiming for a five-nil whitewash.

England understands they are compelled but to turn things around in Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.