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Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they would be leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just a mere six days of play.

They were placed under severe pressure by England during the opener in Perth, then pulled off a remarkable turnaround.

It put them riding a crest of confidence going into the second Test, where they gave the English side a masterclass in how to play the longest format, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

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

I got a close look at England's style throughout the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip representing their opportunity to finally win a series down under, there was a lot of scepticism in this country about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and discover methods to get out? Might they collapse when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

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

Mindset and Responsibility

There is a lot I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, as this enables them push the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams hold each other to account.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches such as Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the captain and senior players who always ran the team environment."

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

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they faced consequences from their teammates. If an individual committed an error on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together because of the love we shared, such was the amount of time we had as a group.

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

Admittedly, these factors are easier while a side is winning, a scenario England are not doing right now.

Examining the Approach

My concern for England stemmed from the philosophy of "this is the way we play" yielded a culture deficient in accountability.

It seemed that England had concluded pitches must conform to their game, rather than England adapting their game to suit the conditions.

Finally, following the result of the loss at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

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

I have no problems with what the England leaders said in public after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright publicly, one can be sure they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

A New Version?

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I support the element of competing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the ingredients of embracing 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.

If England been informed they would face an Australian side without all of their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been delighted with glee.

And yet, Australia achieved victory in Brisbane with all of their other players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

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

Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass with the gloves, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I've ever seen - and I played with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery from an Australian perspective has been the change within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I stated there was essentially just a debate concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to open following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could find it tough to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he could bat at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will result in England's Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the remainder of the series.

That is a great shame for both athletes. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in coming back from injuries, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this contest. They will be devastated.

Adelaide will be a good pitch, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to lead.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England recovered from a two-nil deficit to level the previous series. They will know England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they hold England by the throat and must not let up just 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, therefore this team should be thinking about winning 5-0.

England understands they are compelled to reverse their fortunes at Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to 5-0.