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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams could they have believed they'd find themselves leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry following just only six days of cricket.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test in Perth, then pulled off a remarkable turnaround.

It put them riding a crest of self-belief heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave the English side a masterclass in how to play Test cricket, especially pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

This series remains alive, but it's not far from it. If England fail to win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I got an intimate view of England's approach during the last Ashes series on English soil. For all of the discussion regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series in Australia, existed considerable doubt in this country about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to get out? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

At present, all of the Australians who were sceptical regarding England are seeing their views validated.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists much I admire about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes play without fear, as this enables them to extend the limits of potential.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams hold each other to account.

"Yes, there were support staff such as Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the skipper and experienced players who always ran the team environment."

Even when a young player, I felt like I was allowed to have my say. Everyone took ownership for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out from the standard, they were held consequences by the other players. If an individual committed a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence very often - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained some huge personalities - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we shared, such was the amount of time we spent together.

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

Certainly, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, a scenario England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My concern regarding England was the message of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

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

Finally, in the aftermath of the defeat at the Gabba, it looks like the penny has dropped.

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

I have no problems with the statements the English leadership said in public after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been strong publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more forceful behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Will we now see a new version of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I support the aspect of playing fearlessly. Provided England can add the ingredients of pressure and accountability, then they may still possess to something.

For all that England have been criticised, Australia merits a huge amount of credit.

Had England been informed they would face an Australia team lacking their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with anticipation.

And yet, Australia achieved victory at the Gabba with all of their other players standing up.

Australian Standouts

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven absolutely outstanding, supported by Michael Neser, Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass behind the stumps, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest revelation from an Australian perspective has been the change in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed to be a lot of debate regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was essentially just a debate about one area - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That debate has been settled, just not in the manner anyone expected.

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, there seems there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could find it tough to get back in, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

This represents a great shame for both men. I know the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the dedication involved in coming back from injuries, and how eager both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They will be devastated.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to lead.

Closing Thoughts

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

On this occasion, they have England in a stranglehold and should not relent merely because some big names are coming back. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side 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 will know they are compelled but to turn things around in Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be 5-0.