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Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams could they have believed they would be leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry following just a mere six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by England during the opener at the WACA, before executing a remarkable reversal.

This propelled them riding a crest of self-belief heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered England a masterclass on playing the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

The contest remains alive, however, it's perilously close. If England fail to win the Adelaide Test, it will get embarrassing.

I gained a close look at England's style throughout the last Ashes series in the UK. Despite all the discussion about this tour being their chance to finally win a series down under, existed a lot of scepticism in this country concerning the manner England play.

Would England's batting be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt big shots and find ways to get out? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

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

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople play without fear, as this enables them to extend the boundaries of potential.

But I don't like the idea that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and the best teams hold each other to account.

"Yes, there were the coaches such as Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and senior players who invariably managed the dressing room."

Even when a newcomer, I believed I had permission to voice my opinion. Every player assumed ownership of the team.

Subsequently, should a player deviated of line, they faced accountable from their teammates. If someone made an error repeatedly - which didn't happen frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together because of the love we shared, such was the amount of time we had as a group.

That sense of duty, obligation and adaptability collectively manifested when we stepped on to the field as a unit.

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

A Culture in Question

My worry for England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style yielded a culture that lacks personal responsibility.

It was almost as if England had decided conditions had to adapt to them, instead of England adapting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the defeat at the Gabba, it appears the penny has dropped.

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

I have no problems with the statements the England leaders said in public after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Will we now see an evolved form of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of playing fearlessly. Provided England can incorporate the ingredients of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still possess to something.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia deserve a huge amount for their performance.

Had England been informed they would play an Australia team lacking their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt delighted with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off a win at the Gabba with all of their remaining players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation from an Australian perspective is the shift within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared there was considerable debate regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was essentially just a debate about one area - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That discussion has been settled, just not in a way anyone expected.

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

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

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will mean England's Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide Test and the remainder of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both athletes. I understand how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the effort involved in coming back from setbacks, and how desperate both players were to participate fully in this series. They are surely heartbroken.

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

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England recovered from a two-nil deficit to draw the previous series. They are aware England poses a threat.

This time, they hold England in a stranglehold and must not relent just because some big names are coming back. They cannot get complacent.

An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning every Test it contests, therefore this team should be thinking about winning five-nil whitewash.

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