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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current Ashes series following just only six days of cricket.

The hosts were put under the pump by England during the opener in Perth, then pulled off a remarkable reversal.

This propelled them riding a crest of confidence going into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave the English side a masterclass on playing Test cricket, especially day-night Test cricket.

A Critical Juncture

This series is not dead, however, it's not far from it. Should England fail to win the Adelaide Test, it will get embarrassing.

I gained a close look at England's style throughout the last Ashes series in the UK. For all of the discussion regarding this trip being their chance to ultimately secure a victory in Australia, there was considerable doubt in this country about the way England play.

Would England's batting be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and find ways to get out? Might they collapse under the pressure of the big moments?

At present, all of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are seeing their views right.

Attitude and Accountability

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

But I don't like the idea that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams hold each other to account.

"Indeed, there existed support staff like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the captain and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even as a newcomer, I believed I was allowed to voice my opinion. Every player assumed responsibility of the team.

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

A Winning Formula

Our team contained some huge personalities - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions was for the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden often stated we united because of the love we shared, so extensive was the duration we spent together.

That sense of duty, obligation and adaptability collectively manifested as we walked on to the field as a team.

Admittedly, these factors prove simpler while a side secures victories, which England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

A Culture in Question

My worry regarding 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 decided pitches must conform to them, rather than England adapting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they must to do something to address them.

I have no problems with the statements the English leadership made publicly at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong publicly, you can guarantee they have been forceful in private meetings.

A New Version?

Will we now see a new version of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of competing without fear. If England can add the ingredients of pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still be on to something.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia deserve a huge amount for their performance.

Had England been informed they would face an Australian side lacking their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and 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.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition 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 from an Australian perspective is the change in the batting order.

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

That debate 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 during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, it appears there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

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

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the remainder of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the effort involved in coming back from setbacks, and how desperate both players were to participate fully in this series. They are surely devastated.

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

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England recovered from 2-0 down to draw the previous series. They are aware England poses a threat.

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and should not relent merely because some big names are coming back. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australia team should always think it is capable of winning each match it plays, so for that reason this squad should be thinking for a 5-0.

England will know they have no choice but to turn things around at Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.