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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 after playing a mere six days of cricket.

The hosts were put under the pump by England in the first Test at the WACA, then pulled off a remarkable reversal.

It put them on a wave of self-belief going into the second Test, where they gave England a masterclass in how to play Test cricket, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series remains alive, however, it's not far from it. If England don't win the Adelaide Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I got a close look at England's style throughout the last Ashes series in the UK. Despite all the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series in Australia, existed a lot of scepticism in this country about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to get out? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

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

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists much I admire about England's attitude. I appreciate it when sportspeople play without fear, because that helps them push the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. The great players thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches such as Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the skipper and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even when a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to have my say. Every player assumed ownership for the squad's performance.

Then, if a player deviated from the standard, they faced consequences from their teammates. If someone made an error repeatedly - which didn't happen frequently - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

Our team contained several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we united because of the love we shared, so extensive was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, responsibility and adaptability all came together when we stepped on to the field as a unit.

Admittedly, these factors are easier while a side secures victories, 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 was almost that England had decided pitches must conform to them, rather than the team adjusting their strategy to the prevailing conditions.

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

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

I hold no issue with the statements the English leadership made publicly after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong in the media, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Might we witness a new version of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I like the element of playing fearlessly. If England can add the elements of embracing pressure and accountability, then they may still be on a viable formula.

For all that England have been criticised, Australia merits a huge amount of credit.

Had England had been told they would play an Australia team without all of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with glee.

And yet, Australia pulled off a win in Brisbane with each of their other players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

Pacer Mitchell Starc has been absolutely outstanding, ably assisted by Neser, Scott Boland and Doggett.

Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I've ever seen - and I played with Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery from an Australian perspective has been the shift in the batting order.

Before the series, when there seemed there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I said there was essentially just one question about one area - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

Settling the Order

From the moment Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for 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 suggested he could bat at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the rest of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both athletes. I understand how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the dedication that goes into coming back from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a quality surface, with something in it for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to captain the side.

The Final Word

Australia will remember how England came from 2-0 down to level the previous series. They will know England are dangerous.

This time, they have England in a stranglehold and should not relent just because some big names are coming back. They cannot becoming overconfident.

An Australia team must always believe it is capable of winning each match it contests, therefore this team ought to be aiming for a 5-0.

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