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Not in Australia's most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they would be 2-0 up in this historic rivalry following just only six days of play.

They were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, before executing an incredible reversal.

It put them riding a crest of confidence going into the second Test, where they gave the English side a lesson on playing the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

This series remains alive, but it's not far from it. If 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 in the UK. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory down under, existed considerable doubt among Australian pundits concerning the manner the English team performs.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt 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 were sceptical regarding England are seeing their views right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I admire regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, as this enables them to extend the limits of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the notion that pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members are accountable.

"Yes, there were support staff like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the skipper and experienced players who invariably managed the dressing room."

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

Then, if someone stepped out of line, they were held accountable by the other players. If someone made an error repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

We had some huge personalities - none bigger 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 because of the love we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, obligation and flexibility all came together when we stepped onto the pitch as a unit.

Admittedly, all of these things prove simpler while a side is winning, which England are not doing right now.

A Culture in Question

My concern for England was the message of a rigid style yielded a culture deficient in personal responsibility.

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

Ultimately, 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 take action about it.

I hold no issue with what the England leaders made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been strong in the media, you can guarantee they have been even stronger in private meetings.

A New Version?

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? Like I said, I like the aspect of competing fearlessly. Provided England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and accountability, then they may still possess to something.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia deserve significant credit for their performance.

Had England had been told they would play an Australian side lacking Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with anticipation.

And yet, Australia pulled off a win in Brisbane with each of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

Mitchell Starc has been exceptionally brilliant, supported by Michael 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 shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest revelation for Australia is the change within the top order.

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

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

Settling the Order

From the moment Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, there seems there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

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

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood being absent for the Adelaide Test and the remainder of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both athletes. I know how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the effort that goes into coming back from injuries, and how desperate both would have been to play a full part in this series. They are surely devastated.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to captain the side.

The Final Word

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

This time, they hold England by the throat and must not relent just because key players are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning every Test it plays, therefore this squad ought to be aiming about winning 5-0.

England understands they have no choice but to turn things around in Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.