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Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in this Ashes series following just only six days of cricket.

They were placed under severe pressure by the tourists in the first Test in Perth, before executing an incredible reversal.

It put them on a wave of self-belief heading into the second Test, where they gave the English side a lesson on playing the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

The contest is not dead, but it's perilously close. Should England don't win the Adelaide Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I got an intimate view of England's approach throughout the 2023 Ashes in the UK. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip representing their opportunity to finally win a victory in Australia, existed considerable doubt in this country about the way the English team performs.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure during crucial phases?

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

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists much I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, as this enables them to extend the boundaries of what is possible.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and experienced players who invariably managed the team environment."

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

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they were held accountable from their teammates. If someone made a mistake on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together due to the affection we shared, so extensive was the amount of time 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, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, a scenario England are not doing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My concern for England was the message of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment that lacks personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had concluded conditions had to adapt to them, instead of England adapting their game to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the defeat at the Gabba, it appears the penny has dropped.

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged problems exist, and they must to do something to address them.

I hold no issue with what the England leaders said in public at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong in the media, one can be sure they have been forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness a new version of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of playing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still be on a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits a huge amount for their performance.

Had England been informed they would face an Australian side without all of Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with anticipation.

Nevertheless, Australia achieved victory at the Gabba with each of their other players standing up.

Australian Standouts

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - 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.

Before the series, when it appeared to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was essentially just a debate concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman 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 to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the opening pair.

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

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will result in England's Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the remainder of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I know the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the dedication involved in recovering from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will be a good pitch, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to lead.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England came from 2-0 down to draw the last Ashes. They will know England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they hold England by the throat and should not let up just because some big names are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australia team must always believe it can win each match it plays, so for that reason this squad ought to be aiming for a five-nil whitewash.

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