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Not in 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 during the opener in Perth, then pulled off an incredible turnaround.

It put them riding a crest of self-belief going into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered England a masterclass on playing Test cricket, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

The contest is not dead, but it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got an intimate view of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. For all of the talk regarding this trip being their chance to ultimately secure a series down under, there was considerable doubt in this country about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and find ways to lose their wickets? Would they crumble when pressure mounted of the big moments?

At present, all of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are being proved right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I like regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when sportspeople play without fear, as this enables them push the limits of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players excel when challenged, and the best teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who always ran the team environment."

Even when a young player, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Everyone took ownership of the team.

Then, if a player deviated of line, they were held accountable from their teammates. If someone made an error repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence very often - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions served the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we united because of the love we shared, such was the amount of time we spent together.

That accountability, obligation and flexibility all came together when we stepped on to the field as a team.

Admittedly, these factors are easier when a team is winning, a scenario England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My worry for England was the message of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

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

Ultimately, following the result of the loss in Brisbane, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they need take action to address them.

I hold no issue with the statements the England leaders said in public at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger in private meetings.

A New Version?

Will we now see a new version of Bazball? Like I said, I support the element of playing without fear. If England can incorporate the elements of pressure and accountability, then they may still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia merits a huge amount of credit.

Had England been informed they would play an Australian side without all of their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been delighted with anticipation.

And yet, Australia pulled off victory at the Gabba with all of their remaining players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

Mitchell Starc has proven absolutely outstanding, ably assisted by Neser, Boland and Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass with the gloves, possibly the best display of keeping I have witnessed - and I played with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery from an Australian perspective has been the shift within the top order.

Before the series, when there seemed to be a lot of debate about the Australia line-up, I said there was essentially just a debate about one area - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That debate has been settled, just not in a way anyone predicted.

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman 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 Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Injuries will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the rest of the series.

That is a great shame for both men. I understand how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the effort involved in recovering from setbacks, and how eager both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to lead.

The Final Word

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

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and should not let up merely because some big names are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australia team should always think it can win every Test it plays, so for that reason this squad ought to be aiming for a 5-0.

England will know they have no choice but to turn things around at Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.