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Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in this historic rivalry after playing a mere six days of cricket.

They were placed under severe pressure by the tourists during the opener at the WACA, before executing a remarkable reversal.

This propelled them on a wave of confidence heading into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a masterclass on playing Test cricket, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, but it's perilously close. If England don't win the Adelaide Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I gained an intimate view at England's style during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. For all of the discussion regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series down under, existed considerable scepticism in this country concerning the manner the English team performs.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and discover methods to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

At present, all of the Australians who were sceptical about England are being proved right.

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I like about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them to extend the limits of what is possible.

But I don't like the notion that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were the coaches such as Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the skipper and experienced players who invariably managed the dressing room."

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

Then, if someone stepped out from the standard, they faced consequences from their teammates. If an individual committed an error on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence very often - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

Our team contained several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we united because of the love we had for each other, so extensive was the duration we spent together.

That accountability, responsibility and flexibility collectively manifested as we walked onto the pitch as a team.

Admittedly, all of these things prove simpler while a side is winning, which England are not doing right now.

A Culture in Question

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

It was almost that England had decided pitches must conform to them, instead of England adapting their strategy to the prevailing conditions.

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

Captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they need take action about it.

I hold no issue with the statements the England leaders made publicly at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, one can be sure they have been forceful behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I like the aspect of competing fearlessly. If England can incorporate the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still possess to something.

For all that England have been criticised, Australia deserve significant credit of credit.

If England had been told they would play an Australian side without all of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off victory in Brisbane with each of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

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

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

Maybe the most significant discovery for Australia is the shift within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared to be a lot of debate about the Australia line-up, I stated there was only really one question about one area - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That debate is now resolved, simply not in a way anyone expected.

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Travis Head stuck his hand up to open when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, there seems there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja might face difficulty to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will result in 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 athletes. I understand how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the dedication that goes into recovering from injuries, and how eager both would have been to participate fully in this series. They will be heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, with something in it 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 a two-nil deficit to draw the previous series. They are aware England poses a threat.

This time, they have England by the throat and must not let up just because key players are coming back. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning each match it plays, therefore this squad ought to be aiming about winning five-nil whitewash.

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