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Beyond Australia's wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just only six days of play.

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

This propelled them riding a crest of self-belief 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

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

I gained an intimate view at England's style during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the talk about this tour representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory down under, existed a lot of doubt in this country concerning the manner England play.

Would England's batting be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt big shots and find ways to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, all of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There is a lot I admire about England's attitude. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, because that helps them to extend the boundaries of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or expectation needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members are accountable.

"Yes, there were support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even as a young player, I believed I had permission to have my say. Every player assumed responsibility of the team.

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

A Winning Formula

We had some huge personalities - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - but we all felt that what we were doing served the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we united because of the love we shared, so extensive was the duration we had as a group.

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

Certainly, these factors are easier when a team is winning, which England are currently not experiencing right now.

Examining the Approach

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

It seemed that England had concluded pitches must conform to them, rather than England adapting their strategy to the prevailing conditions.

Finally, in the aftermath of the loss in Brisbane, it looks like the penny has dropped.

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

I have no issue with what the England leaders said in public at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been strong publicly, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Will we now see a new version of Bazball? Like I said, I support the aspect of playing without fear. If England can add the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still possess to something.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia merits significant credit for their performance.

Had England had been told they would play an Australia team without all of their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with anticipation.

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

Australian Standouts

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

Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition with the gloves, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

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

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

That debate is now resolved, simply not in the manner anyone expected.

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could find it tough to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the remainder of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I understand the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the effort involved in recovering from injuries, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, offering something for batters and bowlers. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to lead.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England recovered from a two-nil deficit to draw the last Ashes. They are aware England are dangerous.

This time, they hold England by the throat and should not relent merely because some big names are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning every Test it plays, therefore this team 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.