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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams could they have believed they would be leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry following just a mere six days of play.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, then pulled off an incredible reversal.

It put them riding a crest of confidence going into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a masterclass in how to play the longest format, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series remains alive, but it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the third Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got an intimate view of England's approach during the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory in Australia, existed a lot of doubt among Australian pundits concerning the manner the English team performs.

Would England's batting be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and discover methods to get out? Would they crumble under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, every one of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views validated.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I like about England's attitude. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, as this enables them to extend the limits of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. Elite performers excel when challenged, and the best teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and senior players who always ran the team environment."

Even when a newcomer, I believed I had permission to voice my opinion. Every player assumed ownership of the team.

Then, if a player deviated of line, they were held accountable by the other players. If someone made an error repeatedly - which didn't happen frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - but we all felt that what we were doing was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together because of the love 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 prove simpler while a side is winning, which England are not doing right now.

A Culture in Question

My concern regarding England was the message of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment deficient in personal responsibility.

It was almost that England had decided conditions had to adapt to them, instead of the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Finally, following the result of the defeat at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they must take action to address them.

I hold no problems with the statements the English leadership made publicly after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, you can guarantee they have been even more forceful behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Will we now see an evolved form of Bazball? Like I said, I like the element of competing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia deserve significant credit of credit.

If England been informed they would face an Australia team without all of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with anticipation.

And yet, Australia achieved victory in Brisbane with all of their remaining players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass behind the stumps, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I played with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery for Australia is the shift within the top order.

Before the series, when there seemed to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was essentially just a debate concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That debate is now resolved, simply not in the manner anyone predicted.

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Travis Head stuck his hand up to open when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja might face difficulty to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Injuries will mean England's Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide Test and the remainder of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I know the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in recovering from injuries, and how desperate both players were to play a full part in this contest. They are surely devastated.

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

The Final Word

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

On this occasion, they have England in a stranglehold and must not relent just because some big names are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australia team should always think it is capable of winning each match it contests, therefore this squad ought to be aiming for a 5-0.

England will know they are compelled to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.