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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current historic rivalry following just a mere six days of play.

They were placed under severe pressure by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, then pulled off 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, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

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

I gained an intimate view at England's style during the last Ashes series in the UK. Despite all the talk about this tour being their chance to ultimately secure a series in Australia, there was a lot of doubt in this country about the way England play.

Would England's batting be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt big shots and find ways to get out? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

At present, every one of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople play without fear, because that helps them to extend the boundaries of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the notion that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members are accountable.

"Yes, there were the coaches such as Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and senior players who always ran the team environment."

Even when a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to have my say. Every player assumed ownership of the team.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they faced accountable from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake on more than one occasion - which didn't happen frequently - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we united because of the love we had for each other, such was the duration we spent together.

That accountability, obligation and adaptability collectively manifested when we stepped on to the field as a team.

Certainly, all of these things prove simpler while a side is winning, which England are currently not experiencing right now.

A Culture in Question

My worry for England was the message of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment that lacks personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had concluded conditions had to adapt to their game, rather than the team adjusting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Finally, following the result of the loss in Brisbane, it appears the penny has dropped.

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

I hold no problems with the statements the England leaders made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been forceful behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? As I mentioned, I support the aspect of competing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the ingredients of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still possess to something.

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

If England had been told they would face an Australian side lacking their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt delighted with anticipation.

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

Australian Standouts

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

Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Healy and Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery for Australia is the shift within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I stated there was only really one question concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

The New Opening Pair

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

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

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will result in England's Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

That is a great shame for both athletes. I understand the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the dedication that goes into recovering from injuries, and how desperate both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be devastated.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems 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 poses a threat.

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and must not relent merely because some big names are coming back. They cannot becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning every Test it contests, therefore this team ought to be aiming for a five-nil whitewash.

England understands they have no choice to reverse their fortunes at Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be 5-0.