🔗 Share this article

Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they would be 2-0 up in the current historic rivalry following just a mere six days of cricket.

They were put under the pump by England in the first Test in Perth, before executing an incredible reversal.

This propelled them on a wave of confidence going into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave the English side a lesson in how to play the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

Series on the Brink

The contest is not dead, but it's not far from it. If England don't win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got a close look of England's approach during the last Ashes series in the UK. Despite all the talk about this tour representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a victory in Australia, existed a lot of doubt among Australian pundits concerning the manner England play.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and discover methods to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

At present, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople play without fear, because that helps them to extend the limits of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that pressure or expectation should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and the best teams hold each other are accountable.

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

Even as a newcomer, I felt like I was allowed to have my say. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Then, if a player deviated of line, they faced accountable from their teammates. 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 - yet we collectively believed that what we were doing served the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden often stated we united due to the affection we shared, such was the duration we spent together.

That accountability, responsibility and flexibility all came together as we walked on to the field as a unit.

Certainly, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, which England are currently not experiencing right now.

A Culture in Question

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

It seemed as if England had decided pitches must conform to them, instead of England adapting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the defeat at the Gabba, it looks like the penny has dropped.

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

I hold no problems with the statements the English leadership made publicly at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been strong in the media, you can guarantee they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of competing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and accountability, then they might still possess to something.

For all that England have been criticised, Australia merits a huge amount of credit.

Had England been informed they would face an Australia team lacking Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with anticipation.

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

Australian Standouts

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition with the gloves, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I shared a dressing room with Healy and Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery for Australia is the change within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was essentially just one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team. 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 in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

That is an unfortunate situation for both men. I know how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the dedication that goes into recovering from injuries, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, with something in it for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to lead.

The Final Word

Australia recalls how England recovered from 2-0 down to draw the previous series. They are aware England are dangerous.

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

An Australia team must always believe it is capable of winning every Test it plays, therefore this squad should be thinking for a five-nil whitewash.

England understands they are compelled but to turn things around in Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be 5-0.