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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in this Ashes series following just only six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by England during the opener at the WACA, before executing an incredible reversal.

It put them riding a crest of self-belief heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered England a lesson in how to play the longest format, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series remains alive, however, it's perilously close. If England don't win the third Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got an intimate view of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes in the UK. Despite all the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series in Australia, there was a lot of scepticism in this country about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they play big shots and find ways to get out? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

At present, all of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views validated.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I like about England's attitude. I love it when athletes play without fear, as this enables them push the boundaries of potential.

But I don't like the idea that pressure or expectation should be eliminated. The great players excel when challenged, and the best teams ensure members to account.

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

Even as a young player, I felt like I had permission to have my say. Everyone took responsibility for the squad's performance.

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

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that what we were doing served the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we had for each other, such was the amount of time we had as a group.

That sense of duty, responsibility and flexibility collectively manifested as we walked on to the field as a unit.

Admittedly, all of these things are easier when a team is winning, which England are currently not experiencing right now.

A Culture in Question

My concern for England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in accountability.

It was almost as if England had concluded conditions had to adapt to them, rather than England adapting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

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

I have no problems with what the England leaders made publicly at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been forthright in the media, you can guarantee they have been even more even stronger in private meetings.

A New Version?

Might we witness a new version of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I support the aspect of playing without fear. If England can add the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still possess to something.

For all that England have been criticised, Australia deserve a huge amount of credit.

If England had been told they would face an Australia team lacking their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been delighted with anticipation.

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

Key Performers for Australia

Mitchell Starc has proven absolutely outstanding, ably assisted by Michael Neser, Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass behind the stumps, arguably the finest wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation from an Australian perspective has been the shift in the batting order.

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

That discussion is now resolved, simply not in a way anyone predicted.

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to open when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could face difficulty to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he could bat at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will mean English speedster 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 men. I know the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the dedication that goes into coming back from injuries, and how desperate both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be devastated.

Adelaide will provide a quality surface, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England recovered from a two-nil deficit to level the last Ashes. They are aware England poses a threat.

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

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning each match it contests, therefore this squad should be thinking for a five-nil whitewash.

England will know they have no choice to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be 5-0.