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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they would be 2-0 up in this Ashes series following just a mere six days of play.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by England in the first Test in Perth, then pulled off an incredible reversal.

It put them riding a crest of confidence heading into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a masterclass in how to play the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

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

I got an intimate view of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes in the UK. For all of the talk regarding this trip being their chance to finally win a series in Australia, there was a lot of doubt in this country about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they play aggressive strokes and discover methods to get out? Would they crumble when pressure mounted of the big moments?

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

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I admire about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, because that helps them push the boundaries of what is possible.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. The great players excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were support staff like Bob Simpson and John 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 have my say. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Subsequently, should a player deviated from the standard, they faced consequences by the other players. If someone made an error on more than one occasion - which didn't happen frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together because of the love we shared, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

That accountability, responsibility and flexibility collectively manifested as we walked on to the field as a team.

Certainly, all of these things prove simpler when a team secures victories, a scenario England are not doing right now.

Examining the Approach

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

It seemed as if England had concluded pitches must conform to their game, rather than England adapting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

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

I hold no issue with the statements the English leadership made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Might we witness a new version of Bazball? Like I said, I like the aspect of playing without fear. Provided England can add the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still be on to something.

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

If England had been told they would play an Australia team without all of their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt delighted with glee.

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

Australian Standouts

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation for Australia is the shift in the batting order.

Before the series, when it appeared there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I stated there was only really one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

Settling the Order

From the moment Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

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

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

This represents an unfortunate situation for both athletes. I know the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the effort involved in recovering from injuries, and how desperate both would have been to participate fully in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will be a quality surface, with something in it for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will certainly 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 draw the last Ashes. They are aware England are dangerous.

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

An Australian side must always believe it can win each match it plays, so for that reason this squad should be thinking about winning 5-0.

England will know they are compelled but to turn things around at Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to 5-0.