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Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current Ashes series after playing a mere six days of cricket.

They were put under the pump by the tourists during the opener in Perth, then pulled off a remarkable turnaround.

This propelled them on a wave of self-belief going into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered England a masterclass on playing Test cricket, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

This series is not dead, however, it's not far from it. Should England don't win the third Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got an intimate view at England's style throughout the last Ashes series on English soil. For all of the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory down under, there was a lot of scepticism in this country about the way England play.

Would England's batting be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and discover methods to get out? Would they crumble under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, all of the Australians who were sceptical regarding England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There is much I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them to extend the boundaries of potential.

But I don't like the idea that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. The great players excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were the coaches such as Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and experienced players who invariably managed the dressing room."

Even when a young player, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Everyone took ownership of the team.

Then, if a player deviated from the standard, they were held accountable from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake on more than one occasion - which didn't happen very often - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

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

That accountability, responsibility and adaptability collectively manifested as we walked 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.

A Culture in Question

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

It was almost as if England had decided pitches must conform to their game, rather than England adapting their game to suit the conditions.

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

Both Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they need to do something 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 strong publicly, you can guarantee they have been even stronger in private meetings.

A New Version?

Might we witness a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, 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 a viable formula.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia merits a huge amount of credit.

If England been informed they would play an Australian side lacking their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been delighted with anticipation.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off a win in Brisbane with all of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition with the gloves, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I played with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery from an Australian perspective is the shift within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared to be a lot of debate about the Australia line-up, I said there was only really a debate about one area - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That debate has been settled, simply not in the manner anyone expected.

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, it appears there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja could find it tough to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he could bat at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will mean England's Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood being absent for the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

This represents a great shame for both athletes. I know how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in coming back from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will be a good pitch, offering something for batters and bowlers. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England recovered from 2-0 down to level the previous series. They are aware England are dangerous.

This time, they hold England by the throat and must not relent merely because some big names are coming back. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning each match it plays, therefore this squad ought to be aiming about winning five-nil whitewash.

England will know they are compelled but to turn things around in Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.