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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just a mere six days of play.

They were put under the pump by England during the opener at the WACA, before executing a remarkable reversal.

It put them on a wave of confidence going into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a masterclass on playing Test cricket, especially pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

This series remains alive, however, it's perilously close. If England fail to win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I gained an intimate view at England's style during the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip being their chance to finally win a victory in Australia, there was considerable doubt among Australian pundits concerning the manner the English team performs.

Would England's batting be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and discover methods to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

Right now, all of the Australian observers who were sceptical regarding England are being proved right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There is a lot I like regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when athletes play without fear, as this enables them push the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the notion that pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. The great players excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches such as Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the skipper and experienced players who invariably managed the dressing room."

Even as a newcomer, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Subsequently, should a player deviated from the standard, they were held accountable by the other players. If an individual committed an error on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

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 for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we united because of the love we shared, such was the duration we spent together.

That accountability, responsibility and adaptability all came together as we walked onto the pitch as a team.

Admittedly, these factors prove simpler while a side is winning, which England are currently not experiencing right now.

Examining the Approach

My concern regarding England was the message of a rigid style yielded a culture deficient in accountability.

It was almost as if England had concluded pitches must conform to their game, rather than the team adjusting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Finally, in the aftermath of the defeat at the Gabba, it appears realisation has dawned.

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

I have no problems with what the English leadership made publicly at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong in the media, you can guarantee they have been forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Will we now see an evolved form of Bazball? Like I said, I support the element of competing fearlessly. Provided England can incorporate the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still be on to something.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia deserve significant credit of credit.

If England had been told they would face an Australia team without all of their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with glee.

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

Key Performers for Australia

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven exceptionally brilliant, ably assisted by Michael Neser, Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition with the gloves, arguably the finest wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I played with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery from an Australian perspective has been the change in the batting order.

Before the series, when there seemed there was considerable debate about the Australia line-up, I stated there was essentially just one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion has been settled, just not in the manner anyone expected.

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to open when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, it appears there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the opening pair.

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

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will mean England's Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the Adelaide Test and the remainder of the series.

That is a great shame for both athletes. I understand the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the effort that goes into coming back from injuries, and how desperate both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a quality surface, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

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

This time, they have England by the throat and must not relent merely because some big names are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australia team must always believe it is capable of winning each match it plays, so for that reason this squad ought to be aiming for a five-nil whitewash.

England will know they have no choice but to turn things around at Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to 5-0.