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Beyond Australia's most optimistic hopes could they have believed they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current historic rivalry after playing only six days of play.

They were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test in Perth, 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 on playing the longest format, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

The contest is not dead, but it's perilously close. If England fail to win the third Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I gained a close look of England's approach throughout the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the discussion about this tour being their chance to ultimately secure a victory in Australia, there was a lot of scepticism in this country concerning the manner England play.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to Australian conditions? Would they play aggressive strokes and discover methods to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

Right now, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are seeing their views right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, as this enables them push the boundaries of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the idea that pressure or expectation should be eliminated. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the captain and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even as a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to voice my opinion. Every player assumed responsibility of the team.

Then, if someone stepped out of line, they faced consequences by the other players. If an individual committed an error on more than one occasion - which didn't happen very often - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained some huge personalities - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions served the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

That sense of duty, responsibility and adaptability collectively manifested when we stepped onto the pitch as a team.

Admittedly, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, a scenario England are currently not experiencing right now.

A Culture in Question

My concern for England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks personal responsibility.

It was almost as if England had concluded conditions had to adapt to their game, rather than the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

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

I have no problems with the statements the English leadership made publicly at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, you can guarantee they have been even stronger behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? As I mentioned, I support the element of competing without fear. If England can incorporate the elements of 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.

Had England had been told they would play an Australian side without all of Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with glee.

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

Key Performers for Australia

Mitchell Starc has proven absolutely outstanding, supported by Neser, Scott Boland and Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition with the gloves, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery from an Australian perspective has been the change within the top order.

Before the series, when there seemed there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was only really one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, it appears there is a chance 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 suggested he could bat at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the third 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 effort that goes into recovering from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be heartbroken.

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

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England came 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 must not let up merely because key players are returning. They cannot get complacent.

An Australian side must always believe it can win every Test it contests, so for that reason this squad should be thinking about winning 5-0.

England will know they have no choice to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be 5-0.