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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this Ashes series following just only six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by the tourists during the opener at the WACA, before executing an incredible reversal.

It put them riding a crest of confidence going into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a masterclass on playing the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

This series is not dead, however, it's not far from it. If England don't win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got an intimate view of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes in the UK. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip representing their opportunity to finally win a series down under, existed a lot of doubt in this country about the way the English team performs.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse under the pressure during crucial phases?

At present, all of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are being proved right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There is a lot I like about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes play without fear, as this enables them to extend the boundaries of what is possible.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were support staff like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the skipper and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even when a newcomer, I believed I was allowed to have my say. Every player assumed ownership of the team.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out from the standard, 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

Our team contained several dominant characters - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions was for the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together due to the affection we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

That sense of duty, responsibility and adaptability all came together as we walked on to the field as a team.

Certainly, these factors are easier when a team is winning, which England are currently not experiencing right now.

Examining the Approach

My concern for England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in accountability.

It was almost as if England had decided pitches must conform to their game, rather than England adapting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Finally, following the result of the loss in Brisbane, it appears the penny has dropped.

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

I hold no issue with what the England leaders made publicly at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been strong in the media, one can be sure they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

A New Version?

Will we now see a new version of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I like the aspect of competing without fear. If England can add the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still be on to something.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia deserve a huge amount of credit.

If England been informed they would face an Australian side lacking their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt delighted with anticipation.

And yet, Australia pulled off a win at the Gabba with each of their other players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

Pacer Mitchell Starc has been absolutely outstanding, ably assisted by Neser, Boland and Doggett.

Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass behind the stumps, possibly the best 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 has been the change in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared there was considerable debate about the Australia line-up, I stated there was essentially just a debate concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That discussion has been settled, simply not in the manner anyone predicted.

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Travis Head stuck his hand up to open following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja might find it tough 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 result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

That is a great shame for both athletes. I understand the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the dedication involved in coming back from setbacks, and how desperate both would have been to participate fully in this series. They are surely devastated.

Adelaide will provide a quality surface, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to lead.

The Final Word

Australia will remember how England came from 2-0 down to level the last Ashes. They are aware England poses a threat.

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

An Australia team must always believe it can win each match it plays, so for that reason this squad ought to be aiming for a five-nil whitewash.

England will know they are compelled but to turn things around at Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to 5-0.