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Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams could they have believed they would be 2-0 up in this historic rivalry after playing only six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by England during the opener at the WACA, before executing a remarkable reversal.

This propelled them riding a crest of confidence heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave England a masterclass in how to play the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest is not dead, however, it's perilously close. Should England don't win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I gained an intimate view at England's style during the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory down under, existed considerable scepticism in this country about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and find ways to get out? Might they collapse when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

Right now, every one of the Australians who were sceptical about England are seeing their views validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I like regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when athletes play without fear, because that helps them push the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the notion 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 like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and experienced players who always ran the dressing room."

Even when a young player, I believed I was allowed to voice my opinion. Every player assumed ownership of the team.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out from the standard, they were held consequences by the other players. If someone made a mistake on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions served the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we shared, such was the duration we spent together.

That sense of duty, obligation and flexibility collectively manifested when we stepped onto the pitch as a unit.

Admittedly, these factors are easier while a side is winning, a scenario England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My concern regarding England was the message of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks personal responsibility.

It was almost that England had decided pitches must conform to them, instead of the team adjusting their game to suit the conditions.

Finally, in the aftermath of the loss in Brisbane, it appears realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they need to do something about it.

I hold no problems with the statements the England leaders made publicly at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong in the media, one can be sure they have been even more forceful behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Will we now see a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I support the aspect of competing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the elements of pressure and accountability, then they may still possess a viable formula.

For all that England have been criticised, Australia merits a huge amount for their performance.

If England been informed they would play an Australia team lacking Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia achieved victory in Brisbane with all of their remaining players standing up.

Australian Standouts

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

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

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

Prior to the contest, when there seemed there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was essentially just one question concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head stuck his hand up to open when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, it appears there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might face difficulty to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will mean England's Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I know the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in recovering from setbacks, and how desperate both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They will be devastated.

Adelaide will be a good pitch, with something in it for batters and bowlers. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to lead.

The Final Word

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 hold England by the throat and should not let up merely because key players are coming back. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning each match 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 at Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to 5-0.