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Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they'd find themselves leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry following just a mere six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, before executing an incredible turnaround.

It put them on a wave of confidence going into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave the English side a masterclass in how to play the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

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

I gained a close look of England's approach throughout the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to finally win a series in Australia, there was a lot of scepticism among Australian pundits concerning the manner the English team performs.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and find ways to lose their wickets? Would they crumble when pressure mounted of the big moments?

At present, every one of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views validated.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists much I admire about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them push the limits of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. The great players thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were support staff such as Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the skipper and senior players who always ran 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 of line, they faced consequences by the other players. If someone made an error on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence very often - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained some huge personalities - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions served the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, responsibility and flexibility all came together as we walked on to the field as a team.

Certainly, all of these things prove simpler while a side secures victories, which England are not doing at this moment.

A Culture in Question

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

It was almost as if England had decided conditions had to adapt to their game, instead of England adapting their game to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the defeat in Brisbane, it appears realisation has dawned.

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

I have no issue with the statements the English leadership made publicly at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright publicly, one can be sure they have been forceful behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Might we witness a new version of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I like the aspect of competing fearlessly. Provided England can incorporate the elements of pressure and accountability, then they might still possess a viable formula.

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

Had England been informed they would face an Australia team lacking their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt delighted with glee.

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

Australian Standouts

Pacer 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, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation from an Australian perspective has been the shift in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed there was considerable debate regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was only really a debate concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to open following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might face difficulty to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he could bat at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will mean England's Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the rest of the series.

This represents a great shame for both athletes. I understand how much hard work required to bowl quickly, 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 batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to captain the side.

The Final Word

Australia will remember how England recovered from a two-nil deficit to level the last Ashes. They will know England are dangerous.

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

An Australian side should always think it can win each match 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, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.