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Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves 2-0 up in this Ashes series following just only six days of cricket.

The hosts were put under the pump by England in the first Test in Perth, then pulled off an incredible reversal.

It put them riding a crest of self-belief heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered England a lesson on playing Test cricket, particularly pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

The contest is not dead, however, it's not far from it. Should England fail to win the third Test, it will get embarrassing.

I gained a close look at England's style during the last Ashes series in the UK. Despite all the talk regarding this trip being their chance to ultimately secure a series in Australia, there was considerable scepticism in this country concerning the manner England play.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, every one of the Australians who were sceptical about England are seeing their views right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I admire regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when athletes play without fear, as this enables them push the limits of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the notion that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and experienced players who always ran the team environment."

Even when a young player, I believed I was allowed to have my say. Everyone took responsibility for the squad's performance.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they faced accountable from their teammates. If someone made a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

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 often stated we pulled together because of the love we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

That sense of duty, responsibility and flexibility collectively manifested as we walked on to the field as a team.

Certainly, these factors prove simpler when a team secures victories, a scenario England are currently not experiencing right now.

A Culture in Question

My worry for England was the message of a rigid style yielded a culture deficient in accountability.

It seemed as if England had decided conditions had to adapt to their game, rather than England adapting their strategy to the prevailing conditions.

Finally, in the aftermath of the defeat in Brisbane, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they need to do something about it.

I hold no issue with what the England leaders made publicly at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been forceful behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Might we witness a new version of Bazball? Like I said, I support the aspect of playing without fear. Provided England can add the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit of credit.

If England been informed they would play an Australia team lacking Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been delighted with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off victory in Brisbane with each of their other players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

Mitchell Starc has proven absolutely outstanding, supported by Neser, Boland and Brendan Doggett.

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

Maybe the most significant revelation for Australia has been the shift in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was essentially just one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja might find it tough to get back in, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Injuries will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the rest of the series.

This represents a great shame for both men. I understand the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the dedication involved in recovering from setbacks, and how eager both would have been to participate fully in this series. They are surely heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a quality surface, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to lead.

Closing Thoughts

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

This time, they have England in a stranglehold and should not let up just because some big names are coming back. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning each match it plays, so for that reason this squad should be thinking about winning 5-0.

England will know they are compelled but to turn things around in Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be 5-0.