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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry following just a mere six days of play.

They were placed under severe pressure by the tourists during the opener at the WACA, then pulled off a remarkable turnaround.

This propelled them on a wave of confidence going into the second Test, where they gave the English side a masterclass in how to play the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest is not dead, however, it's not far from it. Should England don't win the Adelaide Test, it will get embarrassing.

I got an intimate view of England's approach throughout the 2023 Ashes on English soil. For all of the discussion about this tour being their chance to finally win a victory in Australia, there was considerable scepticism in this country concerning the manner England play.

Would England's batting be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and discover methods to get out? Would they crumble when pressure mounted of the big moments?

At present, all of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are being proved right.

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I admire about England's attitude. I love 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 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 Buchanan, but it was the skipper and senior players who invariably managed the dressing room."

Even when a young player, I felt like I was allowed to have my say. Everyone took ownership for the squad's performance.

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

The Australian Blueprint

We had some huge personalities - 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 had for each other, such was the amount of time we spent together.

That accountability, obligation and flexibility all came together when we stepped onto the pitch as a unit.

Certainly, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, a scenario England are not doing right now.

Examining the Approach

My worry for England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had concluded pitches must conform to their game, instead of the team adjusting their game to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the defeat at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

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

I have no issue with the statements the English leadership said in public after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Will we now see a new version of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of playing fearlessly. Provided England can add the elements of embracing pressure and accountability, then they might still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia deserve a huge amount of credit.

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

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

Key Performers for Australia

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass with the gloves, arguably the finest display of keeping I have witnessed - and I played with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery from an Australian perspective is the shift in the batting order.

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

That discussion is now resolved, simply not in the manner anyone predicted.

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, it appears there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he could bat in the middle order.

Absences and the Next Challenge

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

This represents an unfortunate situation for both athletes. I understand how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the effort that goes into coming back from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to captain the side.

The Final Word

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 hold England by the throat and should not let up merely because key players are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning every Test it contests, so for that reason this team ought to be aiming about winning 5-0.

England will know they have no choice but to turn things around in Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to 5-0.