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Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they would be leading two-nil in this historic rivalry after playing only six days of play.

The hosts were put under the pump by England in the first Test at the WACA, before executing a remarkable reversal.

It put them on a wave of self-belief heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered the English side a lesson in how to play Test cricket, particularly day-night Test cricket.

A Critical Juncture

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

I got an intimate view at England's style during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. For all of the talk regarding this trip being their chance to finally win a series down under, existed considerable scepticism among Australian pundits concerning the manner England play.

Would England's batting be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Would they crumble when pressure mounted of the big moments?

Right now, all of the Australian observers who expressed doubts regarding England are seeing their views right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I admire about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, because that helps them to extend the limits of what is possible.

But I don't like the notion that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the skipper and senior players who always ran the team environment."

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

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they were held consequences from their teammates. If someone made an error on more than one occasion - which didn't happen very often - they were told.

The Australian Blueprint

We had some huge personalities - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we united due to the affection we had for each other, such was the duration we spent together.

That accountability, obligation and adaptability all came together as we walked onto the pitch as a team.

Admittedly, all of these things prove simpler while a side secures victories, a scenario England are not doing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had concluded conditions had to adapt to their game, instead of England adapting their strategy to the prevailing conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the defeat at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

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

I hold no problems with the statements the English leadership said in public at the Gabba. 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 their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I support the element of playing fearlessly. Provided England can add the ingredients of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still be on to something.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit of credit.

If England had been told they would face an Australian side without all of their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off a win at the Gabba with each of their remaining players standing up.

Australian Standouts

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

Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition with the gloves, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I played with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation from an Australian perspective is the shift in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared there was considerable debate about the Australia line-up, I stated there was essentially just one question about one area - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

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

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Travis Head stuck his hand up to open following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could find it tough to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will result in England's 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 required to bowl quickly, the effort involved in recovering from injuries, and how eager both would have been to participate fully in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England came from a two-nil deficit to draw the previous series. They will know England poses a threat.

On this occasion, they hold England by the throat and must not let up just because some big names are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning every Test it contests, therefore this team should be thinking about winning five-nil whitewash.

England will know they have no choice to reverse their fortunes at Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.