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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in the current Ashes series following just only six days of cricket.

They 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 going into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a lesson on playing the longest format, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series remains alive, however, it's not far from it. If England fail to win the third Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I got a close look of England's approach throughout the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory in Australia, existed considerable scepticism in this country about the way the English team performs.

Would England's batting be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and discover methods to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

At present, all of the Australian observers who were sceptical regarding England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I admire regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them to extend the boundaries of potential.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or expectation should be eliminated. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Indeed, there existed support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even as a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to voice my opinion. Everyone took responsibility for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out from the standard, they were held consequences by the other players. If someone made an error repeatedly - which didn't happen frequently - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

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

That accountability, responsibility and flexibility collectively manifested when we stepped onto the pitch as a unit.

Admittedly, all of these things are easier while a side secures victories, a scenario England are currently not experiencing right now.

A Culture in Question

My concern regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of "this is the way we play" yielded a culture that lacks personal responsibility.

It seemed as if England had decided pitches must conform to them, instead of England adapting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the loss at the Gabba, it looks like the penny has dropped.

Captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they need to do something 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 strong publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

A New Version?

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I like the aspect of playing without fear. Provided England can add the ingredients of pressure and accountability, then they may still be on to something.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia deserve significant credit of credit.

If England had been told they would face an Australia team lacking Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with glee.

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

Key Performers for Australia

Mitchell Starc has been exceptionally brilliant, supported by Michael Neser, Boland and Doggett.

Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass behind the stumps, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I played with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery for Australia has been the shift in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed to be a lot of debate regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was essentially just one question about one area - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That discussion has been settled, just not in a way anyone predicted.

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, there seems there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

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

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

That is a great shame for both athletes. I understand how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the dedication that goes into recovering from setbacks, and how eager both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They will be heartbroken.

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

Closing Thoughts

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

This time, they have England in a stranglehold and must not relent merely because some big names are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australia team should always think it is capable of winning every Test it contests, therefore this team should be thinking for a 5-0.

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