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Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just only six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, then pulled off an incredible turnaround.

It put them on a wave of confidence heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave the English side a lesson in how to play Test cricket, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

This series is not dead, but it's not far from it. If England don't win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got an intimate view at England's style during the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity to finally win a victory in Australia, there was considerable doubt in this country about the way England play.

Would England's batting be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they attempt big shots and discover methods to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, every one of the Australians who were sceptical about England are seeing their views right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There is a lot I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them to extend the limits of potential.

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

"Yes, there were the coaches like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even when a young player, I believed I was allowed to have my say. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Then, if a player deviated of line, they were held accountable by the other players. If someone made a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

Our team contained several dominant characters - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that what we were doing was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we united due to the affection we shared, such was the duration we spent together.

That accountability, responsibility and flexibility all came together when we stepped on to the field as a team.

Certainly, all of these things prove simpler when a team is winning, which England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My concern for England was the message 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, instead of the team adjusting their game to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the defeat in Brisbane, it appears the penny has dropped.

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

I have no problems with the statements the English leadership said in public after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? Like I said, I like the aspect of playing fearlessly. Provided England can add the elements of pressure and accountability, then they might still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit of credit.

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

And yet, Australia pulled off a win in Brisbane with all of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

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

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

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

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

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head stuck his hand up to open when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might face difficulty to get back in, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature in the middle order.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the rest of the series.

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

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to lead.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England recovered from 2-0 down to draw the previous series. They will know England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they hold England by the throat and should not let up just because some big names are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it can win each match it contests, so for that reason this team should be thinking for a five-nil whitewash.

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