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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 after playing only six days of cricket.

They were placed under severe pressure by the tourists during the opener at the WACA, before executing an incredible turnaround.

It put them on a wave of confidence going into the second Test, where they delivered England a lesson in how to play the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, however, it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the third Test, it will get embarrassing.

I got a close look of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes in the UK. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip being their chance to ultimately secure a victory down under, existed a lot of doubt among Australian pundits concerning the manner England play.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and discover methods to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

At present, every one of the Australians who were sceptical regarding England are being proved right.

Mindset and Responsibility

There is much I admire about England's attitude. I love it when athletes compete fearlessly, because that helps them push the limits of potential.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or expectation needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches such as Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the skipper and senior players who always ran the dressing room."

Even when a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to voice my opinion. Everyone took ownership of the team.

Subsequently, should a player deviated of line, they were held accountable by the other players. If someone made a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence very often - 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 our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we shared, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

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

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

Examining the Approach

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment that lacks personal responsibility.

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

Finally, in the aftermath of the loss in Brisbane, it looks like the penny has dropped.

Captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they need take action about it.

I have no issue with what the England leaders made publicly after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more forceful behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of playing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the ingredients of embracing pressure and accountability, then they may still be on a viable formula.

For all that England have been criticised, Australia merits a huge amount for their performance.

Had England had been told they would face an Australia team without all of Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt delighted with glee.

And yet, Australia achieved a win at the Gabba with each of their remaining players standing up.

Australian Standouts

Pacer Mitchell Starc has been exceptionally brilliant, supported by Neser, Scott Boland and Doggett.

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

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

Before the series, when it appeared to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was only really a debate concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That debate is now resolved, just not in a way anyone expected.

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head stuck his hand up to open when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, it appears there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja could face difficulty to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature in the middle order.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will mean England's Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide Test and the remainder of the series.

That is a great shame for both men. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in coming back from injuries, and how eager both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

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

The Final Word

Australia recalls how England came from 2-0 down to draw the last Ashes. They are aware England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they have England by the throat and should not relent merely because some big names are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australian side must always believe it can win each match it plays, therefore this team should be thinking about winning 5-0.

England will know they have no choice to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be 5-0.