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Not in Australia's wildest dreams could they have believed they would be leading two-nil in this Ashes series after playing only six days of play.

They were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, before executing an incredible turnaround.

This propelled them riding a crest of confidence going into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered the English side a masterclass in how to play Test cricket, particularly pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

The contest remains alive, however, it's not far from it. If England fail to win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I gained an intimate view at England's style throughout the 2023 Ashes on English soil. For all of the discussion about this tour being their chance to ultimately secure a series down under, there was a lot of 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 get out? Might they collapse under the pressure of the big moments?

At present, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views right.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople play without fear, as this enables them to extend the boundaries of what is possible.

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

"Yes, there were the coaches like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the skipper and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

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

Subsequently, should a player deviated from the standard, they faced consequences from their teammates. If someone made an error repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

We had some huge personalities - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions served the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we united because of the love we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

That sense of duty, obligation and flexibility all came together as we walked on to the field as a unit.

Certainly, these factors are easier while a side secures victories, which England are not doing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My worry for England stemmed from the philosophy of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment deficient in personal responsibility.

It seemed as if England had concluded conditions had to adapt to them, rather than the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

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

I hold no problems with what the England leaders made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Will we now see an evolved form of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of competing without fear. If England can incorporate the ingredients of pressure and accountability, then they might still be on a viable formula.

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

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

And yet, Australia pulled off victory in Brisbane with each of their other players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass with the gloves, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest revelation for Australia has been the change within the top order.

Before the series, when there seemed there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was essentially just one question concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That debate has been settled, just not in a way anyone expected.

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to open following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, it appears there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja could find it tough to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide Test and the remainder of the series.

That is a great shame for both athletes. I know the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in coming back from setbacks, and how desperate both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will be a quality surface, offering something for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England came from 2-0 down to level the last Ashes. They will know England poses a threat.

This time, they have England in a stranglehold and should not let up just because some big names are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australia team must always believe it can win every Test it plays, so for that reason this team should be thinking about winning 5-0.

England understands they are compelled but to turn things around at Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be 5-0.