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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they would be leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry following just only six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, then pulled off a remarkable turnaround.

It put them on a wave of confidence going into the second Test, where they delivered England a masterclass in how to play Test cricket, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

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

I gained an intimate view of England's approach during the last Ashes series in the UK. Despite all the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity to finally win a victory in Australia, there was considerable 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 play aggressive strokes and discover methods to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

Right now, all of the Australian observers who expressed doubts regarding England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I like regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, because that helps them push the boundaries of what is possible.

But I don't like the idea that pressure or expectation needs to be removed. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams hold each other are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed support staff like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and senior players who always ran the dressing room."

Even when a newcomer, I felt like 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 consequences by the other players. If someone made a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained some huge personalities - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together because of the love we shared, so extensive was the duration we had as a group.

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

Admittedly, all of these things prove simpler when a team is winning, which England are currently not experiencing right now.

Examining the Approach

My concern for England was the message of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had decided pitches must conform to them, instead of the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they need to do something to address them.

I have no problems with what the England leaders said in public at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been forthright in the media, one can be sure they have been forceful behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I support the element of competing fearlessly. Provided England can incorporate the ingredients of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still be on to something.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia merits a huge amount for their performance.

If England been informed they would play an Australian side lacking Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with anticipation.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off a win in Brisbane with all of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I shared a dressing room with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation for Australia has been the shift within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared to be a lot of debate about the Australia line-up, I stated there was essentially just a debate about one area - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That discussion is now resolved, simply not in a way anyone expected.

Settling the Order

From the moment Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might face difficulty to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will result in England's Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the rest of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both athletes. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the effort that goes into recovering from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this series. They are surely devastated.

The Adelaide Oval will be a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England recovered from a two-nil deficit to draw the previous series. They are aware England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they hold England by the throat and should not relent just because key players are coming back. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it can win each match it contests, therefore this team should be thinking for a five-nil whitewash.

England understands they are compelled to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be 5-0.