🔗 Share this article

Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just only six days of play.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test in Perth, then pulled off a remarkable reversal.

This propelled them riding a crest of self-belief going into the second Test, where they delivered England a lesson in how to play Test cricket, especially day-night Test cricket.

A Critical Juncture

The contest is not dead, but it's perilously close. If England don't win the third Test, it will get embarrassing.

I got an intimate view at England's style throughout the last Ashes series on English soil. For all of the talk about this tour representing their opportunity to finally win a series down under, there was a lot of doubt among Australian pundits concerning the manner England play.

Would England's batting be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and discover methods to lose their wickets? Would they crumble when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

At present, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts about England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I like about England's attitude. I love it when athletes play without fear, as this enables them to extend the limits of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or expectation should be eliminated. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the captain and senior players who always ran the dressing room."

Even when a young player, I felt like I had permission to voice my opinion. Every player assumed responsibility of the team.

Then, if someone stepped out of line, they faced accountable from their teammates. If someone made a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence very often - they were addressed.

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 was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden used to say 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 when we stepped on to the field as a unit.

Admittedly, these factors are easier while a side secures victories, which England are not doing right now.

A Culture in Question

My concern for England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment that lacks personal responsibility.

It seemed that England had decided pitches must conform to them, rather than the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged problems exist, and they need take action to address them.

I hold no issue with what the English leadership made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors.

A New Version?

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

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia deserve significant credit for their performance.

If England been informed they would face an Australian side lacking their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been delighted with anticipation.

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

Australian Standouts

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven absolutely outstanding, ably assisted by Neser, Scott Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass behind the stumps, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I have witnessed - and I played with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery for Australia has been the shift within the top order.

Before the series, when it appeared to be a lot of debate 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, simply not in the manner anyone predicted.

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, it appears there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could find it tough to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Fitness issues will mean English speedster Mark Wood and Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the rest of the series.

That is an unfortunate situation for both athletes. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the effort that goes into coming back from setbacks, and how desperate both would have been to participate fully in this series. They will be devastated.

Adelaide will provide a quality surface, with something in it for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England recovered from 2-0 down to draw the last Ashes. They will know England poses a threat.

This time, they hold England by the throat and must not let up just because some big names are returning. They cannot get complacent.

An Australian side must always believe it can win each match it plays, so for that reason this team ought to be aiming for a 5-0.

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