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Beyond Australia's most optimistic hopes could they have believed they would be 2-0 up in the current historic rivalry after playing a mere six days of play.

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

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 day-night Test cricket.

A Critical Juncture

The contest is not dead, however, it's perilously close. If England fail to win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got a close look of England's approach throughout the last Ashes series on English soil. For all of the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory down under, existed considerable scepticism among Australian pundits concerning the manner the English team performs.

Would England's batting be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and discover methods to get out? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

Right now, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are seeing their views validated.

Mindset and Responsibility

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

However, I disagree with the notion that external pressure or expectation needs to be removed. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams hold each other are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and senior players who always ran the dressing room."

Even as a young player, I believed I had permission to voice my opinion. Everyone took ownership of the team.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out from the standard, they faced consequences by the other players. If an individual committed an error repeatedly - which didn't happen frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions served the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we united due to the affection we shared, so extensive was the duration we spent together.

That sense of duty, obligation and flexibility collectively manifested when we stepped on to the field as a team.

Certainly, all of these things are easier while a side secures victories, which England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My worry for England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in accountability.

It was almost that England had decided conditions had to adapt to their game, instead of England adapting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the loss at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they must take action to address them.

I have no issue with what the England leaders said in public at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, one can be sure they have been even stronger behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? Like I said, I like the element of competing without fear. If England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still be on a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits a huge amount for their performance.

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

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off a win at the Gabba with all of their other players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

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

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

Perhaps the biggest revelation for Australia is the change in the batting order.

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

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

Settling the Order

From the moment Travis Head stuck his hand up to open following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia have looked transformed. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish 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 being absent for the Adelaide Test and the remainder of the series.

That is an unfortunate situation for both athletes. I know the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the effort involved in recovering from setbacks, and how eager both would have been to play a full part in this series. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, with something in it for batters and bowlers. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to lead.

The Final Word

Australia will remember how England came from 2-0 down to level the last Ashes. They are aware England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and should not let up just because some big names are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australia team should always think it can win each match it contests, so for that reason this squad should be thinking for a 5-0.

England will know they are compelled to reverse their fortunes at Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.