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Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current historic rivalry following just a mere six days of cricket.

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

This propelled them riding a crest of confidence heading into the second Test, where they gave England a lesson in how to play the longest format, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

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

I got a close look 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 victory down under, existed considerable doubt among Australian pundits about the way the English team performs.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they play aggressive strokes and discover methods to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

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

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I admire about England's attitude. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, because that helps them to extend the limits of what is possible.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or expectation should be eliminated. Elite performers excel when challenged, and the best teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were support staff like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even as a newcomer, I believed I had permission to voice my opinion. Every player assumed ownership for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out of line, they faced accountable by the other players. If an individual committed a mistake on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence very often - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that what we were doing served the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we had for each other, such was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, obligation and adaptability collectively manifested when we stepped on to the field as a team.

Admittedly, all of these things are easier while a side 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 that lacks personal responsibility.

It seemed as if England had decided conditions had to adapt to them, instead of the team adjusting their game to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the loss at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they need take action to address them.

I have no issue with the statements the English leadership said in public after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger in private meetings.

A New Version?

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

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

If England had been told they would face an Australia team lacking Pat Cummins, Josh 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 remaining players standing up.

Australian Standouts

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I played with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

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

Before the series, when it appeared there was considerable debate about the Australia line-up, I stated there was only really a debate concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion has been settled, simply not in a way anyone predicted.

Settling the Order

From the moment Batsman Travis Head volunteered to open when Khawaja got hurt 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 cement themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja might face difficulty to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he could bat at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

This represents a great shame for both athletes. I understand how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the dedication that goes into coming back from injuries, and how desperate both players were to participate fully in this contest. They will be heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will be a quality surface, offering something for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

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 hold England in a stranglehold and should not let up merely because key players are returning. They cannot get complacent.

An Australia team must always believe it is capable of winning each match it contests, therefore this squad ought to be aiming about winning five-nil whitewash.

England understands they are compelled to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.