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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this Ashes series after playing 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 turnaround.

This propelled them riding a crest of confidence going into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a lesson on playing the longest format, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series is not dead, however, it's perilously close. If England don't win the third Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I got a close look of England's approach throughout the last Ashes series on English soil. For all of the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series down under, existed considerable doubt among Australian pundits about the way the English team performs.

Would England's batting be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they play aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

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

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I like about England's attitude. I love it when athletes play without fear, because that helps them push the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers excel when challenged, and the best teams hold each other to account.

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

Even when a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to have my say. Everyone took responsibility for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out of line, they were held consequences by the other players. If someone made an error repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

Our team contained some huge personalities - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that what we were doing was for the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we united because of the love we shared, so extensive was the amount of time we had as a group.

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

Admittedly, all of these things prove simpler while a side secures victories, which England are not doing right now.

A Culture in Question

My concern for England was the message of "this is the way we play" yielded a culture that lacks accountability.

It seemed that England had decided conditions had to adapt to them, rather than England adapting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the defeat in Brisbane, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum acknowledged problems exist, and they must to do something about it.

I have no problems with the statements the English leadership said in public at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, one can be sure they have been forceful behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Will we now see a new version of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of playing fearlessly. If England can add the elements of embracing pressure and accountability, then they might still be on to something.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit for their performance.

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

And yet, Australia achieved a win in Brisbane with all of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven exceptionally brilliant, ably assisted by Michael Neser, Scott Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass with the gloves, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I played with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery from an Australian perspective is the change within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed there was considerable debate about the Australia line-up, I stated there was essentially just one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

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

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will mean England's Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide 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 dedication that goes into coming back from injuries, and how desperate both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They will be devastated.

The Adelaide Oval will be a good pitch, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England came from a two-nil deficit to level the last Ashes. They will know England poses a threat.

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and should not let up merely because key players are coming back. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australian side must always believe it can win each match it plays, therefore this squad should be thinking for a 5-0.

England understands they are compelled to reverse their fortunes at Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.