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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current historic rivalry following just only six days of cricket.

They were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, before executing an incredible turnaround.

This propelled them on a wave of self-belief heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave the English side a masterclass on playing the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

The contest remains alive, but it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the Adelaide Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

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

Would England's batting be suited to Australian conditions? Would they play aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, every one of the Australians 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 sportspeople play without fear, because that helps them to extend the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that pressure or expectation should be eliminated. The great players excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and experienced players who invariably managed the dressing room."

Even when a young player, I believed I was allowed to voice my opinion. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out from the standard, they were held accountable by the other players. If someone made an error repeatedly - which didn't happen frequently - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

We had several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions served the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we united because of the love we had for each other, such was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, responsibility and flexibility collectively manifested when we stepped onto the pitch as a team.

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

A Culture in Question

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of "this is the way we play" yielded a culture deficient in accountability.

It was almost as if England had concluded pitches must conform to them, rather than England adapting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

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

I have no problems with the statements the England leaders said in public at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, you can guarantee they have been even more even stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? Like I said, I support the aspect of playing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the ingredients of embracing pressure and accountability, then they might still possess to something.

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

Had England had been told they would play an Australia team without all of Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with anticipation.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off a win at the Gabba with each of their other players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass with the gloves, arguably the finest display of keeping I have witnessed - and I played with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery for Australia has been the change within the top order.

Before the series, when it appeared to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was only really one question concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion has been settled, 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 in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature in the middle order.

Absences and the Next Challenge

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

That is an unfortunate situation for both men. I understand how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the dedication that goes into recovering from injuries, and how eager both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They are surely devastated.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, offering something for batters and bowlers. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England came from 2-0 down to draw the previous series. They are aware England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they have England in a stranglehold and must 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, therefore this team ought to be aiming about winning 5-0.

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