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Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this historic rivalry after playing a mere six days of play.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, then pulled off a remarkable reversal.

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, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, but it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the Adelaide Test, it will get embarrassing.

I got a close look of England's approach throughout the 2023 Ashes on English soil. For all of the talk regarding this trip being their chance to ultimately secure a victory in Australia, there was considerable doubt among Australian pundits about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and discover methods to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

Right now, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts about England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I like regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them push the boundaries of potential.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or expectation needs to be removed. The great players excel when challenged, and the best teams hold each other to account.

"Indeed, there existed support staff such as Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the skipper and experienced players who always ran the dressing room."

Even when a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to voice my opinion. Every player assumed responsibility for the squad's performance.

Then, if a player deviated of line, they faced consequences from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake repeatedly - which didn't happen very often - they were told.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - but we all felt that what we were doing was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated 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, obligation and flexibility collectively manifested when we stepped on to the field as a team.

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

A Culture in Question

My worry for England was the message of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

It seemed as if England had concluded conditions had to adapt to them, instead of the team adjusting their game to suit the conditions.

Finally, in the aftermath of the defeat in Brisbane, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum acknowledged problems exist, and they must to do something about it.

I have no problems with what the England leaders made publicly at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright publicly, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? Like I said, I support the element of playing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the ingredients of pressure and accountability, then they may still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit for their performance.

Had England been informed they would play an Australian side lacking Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been delighted with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia achieved a win in Brisbane with each of their remaining players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

Mitchell Starc has been exceptionally brilliant, ably assisted by Michael Neser, Scott Boland and Doggett.

Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, possibly the best display of keeping I have witnessed - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

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

Before the series, when there seemed to be a lot of discussion about the Australia line-up, I stated there was only really a debate about one area - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That discussion has been settled, just not in a way anyone predicted.

Settling the Order

From the moment Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could face difficulty to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature in the middle order.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will mean England's Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the rest of the series.

That is a great shame for both athletes. I know the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the dedication that goes into coming back from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this series. They are surely devastated.

Adelaide will be a quality surface, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England came 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 let up just because key players are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

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

England understands they have no choice but to turn things around at Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to 5-0.