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Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just only six days of play.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists during the opener at the WACA, before executing a remarkable reversal.

This propelled them on a wave of self-belief heading into the second Test, where they gave England a lesson on playing the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, however, it's not far from it. If England don't win the third Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I got a close look at England's style throughout the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the discussion about this tour being their chance to ultimately secure a series down under, existed considerable scepticism among Australian pundits about the way England play.

Would England's batting be suited to Australian conditions? 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 Australian observers who were sceptical regarding England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when athletes compete fearlessly, because that helps them to extend the limits of potential.

However, I disagree with the notion that pressure or expectation needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members are accountable.

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

Even as a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to voice my opinion. Everyone took ownership of the team.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out from the standard, they were held accountable from their teammates. If someone made a mistake on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence very often - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained some huge personalities - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we united due to the affection we had for each other, such was the amount of time we spent together.

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

Certainly, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, a scenario England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

A Culture in Question

My worry regarding England was the message of a rigid style yielded a culture deficient in personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had decided pitches must conform to their game, instead of the team adjusting their strategy to suit the conditions.

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

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

I have no issue with what the England leaders made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been strong publicly, you can guarantee they have been even stronger behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Will we now see an evolved form of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I support the aspect of competing fearlessly. If England can add the ingredients of pressure and accountability, then they might still possess to something.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia merits significant credit for their performance.

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

Nevertheless, Australia achieved victory at the Gabba with each of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

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

Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass with the gloves, arguably the finest display of keeping I have witnessed - and I played with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery for Australia has been the change in the batting order.

Before the series, when there seemed there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I stated there was only really a debate concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion is now resolved, just not in a way anyone expected.

The New Opening Pair

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 cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he could bat in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood being absent for the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

That is a great shame for both men. I know the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the effort involved in coming back from injuries, and how eager both would have been to participate fully in this series. They are surely heartbroken.

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

Closing Thoughts

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

This time, they have England by the throat and should not let up just because some big names are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning every Test it contests, therefore this team should be thinking for a 5-0.

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