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Beyond Australia's wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in the current Ashes series after playing only six days of play.

They were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, before executing an incredible reversal.

It put them on a wave of confidence going into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a masterclass in how to play Test cricket, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series remains alive, but it's not far from it. Should England fail to win the third Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I got a close look of England's approach during the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to finally win a victory in Australia, existed a lot of scepticism in this country about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they attempt big shots and discover methods to lose their wickets? Would they crumble when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

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

Attitude and Accountability

There exists a lot I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when athletes play without fear, as this enables them push the limits of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams hold each other are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed support staff such as Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the skipper and experienced players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even as a newcomer, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Every player assumed responsibility for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out from the standard, they were held accountable by the other players. If an individual committed a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

We had some huge personalities - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we shared, such was the duration we spent together.

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

Certainly, these factors are easier while a side secures victories, which England are not doing at this moment.

A Culture in Question

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

It seemed as if England had concluded conditions had to adapt to their game, rather than 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.

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum acknowledged problems exist, and they need take action about it.

I have no issue with the statements the English leadership made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, one can be sure they have been even more forceful behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Will we now see a new version of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I support the element of playing without fear. If England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still be on to something.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia merits a huge amount for their performance.

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

And yet, Australia achieved victory at the Gabba with each of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

Pacer Mitchell Starc has been absolutely outstanding, supported by Michael Neser, Scott Boland and Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass with the gloves, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

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

Before the series, when it appeared there was considerable debate about the Australia line-up, I said there was only really one question concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That discussion has been settled, just not in the manner anyone predicted.

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Batsman Travis Head volunteered to open following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja might face difficulty to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

That is a great shame for both athletes. I know how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the effort that goes into recovering from setbacks, and how desperate both players were to participate fully in this contest. They will be devastated.

Adelaide will provide a quality surface, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to lead.

The Final Word

Australia recalls how England came from a two-nil deficit to level the previous series. They will know England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and should not let up merely because key players are coming back. They must avoid get complacent.

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

England understands they have no choice to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.