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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this historic rivalry after playing only six days of cricket.

The hosts were put under the pump by England during the opener in Perth, before executing a remarkable reversal.

This propelled them riding a crest of self-belief heading into the second Test, where they gave England a masterclass in how to play the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, but it's not far from it. If England don't win the third Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got an intimate view at England's style during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series in Australia, there was considerable doubt in this country about the way the English team performs.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they play big shots and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

Right now, all of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views validated.

Attitude and Accountability

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

However, I disagree with the notion that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were support staff like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the skipper and senior players who always ran the dressing room."

Even as a newcomer, I believed I was allowed to have my say. Every player assumed responsibility for the squad's performance.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they were held accountable by the other players. If someone made a mistake on more than one occasion - which didn't happen frequently - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

Our team contained some huge personalities - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we united due to the affection we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, obligation and flexibility all came together when we stepped on to the field as a team.

Certainly, these factors are easier when a team secures victories, which England are not doing right now.

A Culture in Question

My concern for England stemmed from the philosophy of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment deficient in accountability.

It seemed as if England had decided pitches must conform to their game, rather than the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the defeat in Brisbane, it appears realisation has dawned.

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

I have no problems with the statements the England leaders made publicly after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, one can be sure they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Will we now see an evolved form of Bazball? Like I said, I support the aspect of playing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still be on a viable formula.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia deserve significant credit of credit.

If England had been told they would face an Australia team without all of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been delighted with anticipation.

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

Australian Standouts

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

Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass with the gloves, arguably the finest wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I played with Healy and Gilchrist.

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

Prior to the contest, when it appeared there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I said there was essentially just a debate about one area - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion has been settled, just not in a way anyone expected.

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, it appears there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja could find it tough to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he could bat at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the remainder of the series.

That is an unfortunate situation for both men. I know how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the effort involved in recovering from setbacks, and how desperate both players were to play a full part in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, with something in it for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to captain the side.

The Final Word

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

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

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning each match it plays, so for that reason this squad should be thinking for a five-nil whitewash.

England understands they have no choice but to turn things around at Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to 5-0.