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Beyond Australia's most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they would be leading two-nil in the current Ashes series after playing a mere six days of play.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by England during the opener at the WACA, before executing an incredible turnaround.

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

A Critical Juncture

The contest remains alive, but it's perilously close. If England don't win the third Test, it will get embarrassing.

I gained a close look of England's approach during the last Ashes series on English soil. For all of the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to finally win a series down under, there was considerable doubt in this country concerning the manner England play.

Would England's batting be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to get out? 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.

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I admire about England's attitude. I love it when sportspeople play without fear, as this enables them to extend the limits of what is possible.

But I don't like the notion that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members to account.

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

Even when a young player, I felt like I had permission to have my say. Every player assumed responsibility for the squad's performance.

Then, if someone stepped out of line, they were held accountable by the other players. If an individual committed a mistake on more than one occasion - which didn't happen frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained several dominant characters - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that what we were doing was for the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together because of the love we shared, such was the duration we spent together.

That sense of duty, responsibility and adaptability collectively manifested when we stepped on to the field as a unit.

Certainly, these factors prove simpler while a side is winning, which England are not doing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My concern for England was the message of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

It was almost that England had decided conditions had to adapt to their game, rather than England adapting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the defeat in Brisbane, it looks like the penny has dropped.

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they must to do something to address them.

I have no issue with what the English leadership said in public at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of competing without fear. Provided England can add the ingredients of embracing pressure and accountability, then they might still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia merits significant credit for their performance.

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

Nevertheless, Australia achieved victory in Brisbane with each of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven exceptionally brilliant, supported by Michael Neser, Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, arguably the finest display of keeping I have witnessed - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery from an Australian perspective is the change within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was only really a debate about one area - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That discussion is now resolved, simply not in a way anyone expected.

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to open when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, there seems there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he could bat in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Injuries will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the third Test and the remainder of the series.

That is an unfortunate situation for both men. I know how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the dedication that goes into recovering from injuries, and how eager both would have been to play a full part in this series. They will be devastated.

Adelaide will provide a quality surface, with something in it for batters and bowlers. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

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

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and should not relent merely because key players are returning. They cannot becoming overconfident.

An Australia team must always believe it can win every Test it plays, so for that reason 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.