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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams could they have believed they would be 2-0 up in the current Ashes series following just only six days of cricket.

They were put under the pump by England during the opener at the WACA, before executing an incredible turnaround.

It put them on a wave of confidence heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered England a masterclass in how to play the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

This series remains alive, however, it's perilously close. Should England don't win the third Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I got an intimate view at England's style throughout the last Ashes series in the UK. For all of the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory down under, existed considerable doubt in this country about the way the English team performs.

Would England's batting be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and find ways to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

At present, all of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists a lot I admire about England's attitude. I love it when athletes compete fearlessly, because that helps them to extend the limits of potential.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. Elite performers excel when challenged, and the best teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the skipper and experienced players who invariably managed the dressing room."

Even when a newcomer, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Everyone took ownership for the squad's performance.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out from the standard, they were held consequences from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake repeatedly - which didn't happen very often - they were told.

A Winning Formula

We had some huge personalities - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that what we were doing served the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden used to say we united because of the love we shared, so extensive was the duration we spent together.

That accountability, obligation and flexibility collectively manifested when we stepped onto the pitch as a unit.

Admittedly, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, which England are not doing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

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

It seemed as if England had decided conditions had to adapt to them, instead of the team adjusting their game to suit the conditions.

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

Captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they must take action about it.

I hold no problems with the statements the England leaders made publicly at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been even stronger in private meetings.

A New Version?

Will we now see a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I support the element of competing fearlessly. If England can incorporate the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still be on a viable formula.

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

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

And yet, Australia achieved victory at the Gabba with all of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, possibly the best display of keeping I have witnessed - and I played with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery for Australia is the change in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared to be a lot of debate 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 expected.

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Travis Head volunteered to open following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, there seems there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to get back in, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the remainder of the series.

That is a great shame for both athletes. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in recovering from injuries, and how eager both would have been to participate fully in this series. They will be heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to lead.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England came from 2-0 down to level the last Ashes. They are aware England are dangerous.

This time, they hold England by the throat and must not let up just because some big names are returning. They cannot get complacent.

An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning each match it contests, therefore this squad should be thinking for a 5-0.

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