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Not in Australia's most optimistic hopes could they have believed they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just only six days of play.

They were placed under severe pressure by the tourists during the opener in Perth, before executing an incredible reversal.

It put them on a wave of confidence going into the second Test, where they gave England a lesson on playing the longest format, especially day-night Test cricket.

A Critical Juncture

This series is not dead, however, it's not far from it. If England don't win the third Test, it will get embarrassing.

I gained a close look of England's approach throughout the last Ashes series in the UK. Despite all the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to finally win a victory down under, there was a lot of doubt in this country about the way England play.

Would England's batting 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?

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

Attitude and Accountability

There is much I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, because that helps them push the boundaries of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the idea that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers excel when challenged, and the best teams hold each other to account.

"Yes, there were support staff like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who always ran the team environment."

Even when a newcomer, I felt like I was allowed to have my say. Every player assumed responsibility for the squad's performance.

Then, if a player deviated from the standard, they faced consequences from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

Our team contained several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that what we were doing served the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together because of the love we had for each other, so extensive was the duration we had as a group.

That sense of duty, obligation and flexibility all came together when we stepped on to the field as a unit.

Admittedly, all of these things prove simpler when a team is winning, a scenario England are not doing right now.

A Culture in Question

My worry for England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

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

Ultimately, following the result of the loss at the Gabba, it appears realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they need take action about it.

I have no problems with the statements the England leaders made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been strong in the media, one can be sure they have been forceful in private meetings.

A New Version?

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of competing without fear. Provided England can add the ingredients of pressure and accountability, then they might still be on to something.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit for their performance.

Had England had been told they would face an Australia team lacking Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt delighted with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia achieved a win in Brisbane with all of their remaining players standing up.

Australian Standouts

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered 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 for Australia has been the change 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 one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That debate is now resolved, simply not in the manner anyone expected.

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, there seems to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

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

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will mean England's Mark Wood and Australian seamer 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 it is to bowl fast, the effort involved in coming back from setbacks, and how eager both players were to participate fully in this contest. They will be devastated.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to lead.

Closing Thoughts

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

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and should not relent just because key players are coming back. They cannot get complacent.

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning every Test it plays, so for that reason this team should be thinking for a five-nil whitewash.

England understands they have no choice to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.