🔗 Share this article

Beyond Australia's wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in the current Ashes series following just a mere six days of play.

They were put under the pump by England during the opener in Perth, then pulled off an incredible turnaround.

This propelled them on a wave of self-belief going into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave England a masterclass on playing Test cricket, especially day-night Test cricket.

A Critical Juncture

The contest remains alive, however, it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I gained an intimate view of England's approach throughout the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the talk regarding this trip being their chance to ultimately secure a series down under, existed considerable doubt in this country about the way the English team performs.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and find ways to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, all of the Australian observers who were sceptical about England are seeing their views validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists a lot I admire about England's attitude. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them push the limits of potential.

But I don't like the idea that pressure or expectation needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Yes, there were the coaches like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who always ran the team environment."

Even when a newcomer, I believed I was allowed to have my say. Every player assumed ownership of the team.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they were held consequences from their teammates. If an individual committed a mistake on more than one occasion - which didn't happen frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - none bigger 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 united because of the love we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

That accountability, responsibility and adaptability all came together when we stepped onto the pitch as a team.

Admittedly, all of these things prove simpler while a side secures victories, which England are not doing right now.

A Culture in Question

My concern for England was the message of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in accountability.

It seemed that England had concluded conditions had to adapt to them, instead of England adapting their strategy to suit the 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 must take action about it.

I hold no issue with the statements the English leadership said in public at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong publicly, one can be sure they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Will we now see an evolved form of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the element of playing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and accountability, then they might still possess a viable formula.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia deserve a huge amount of credit.

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

Nevertheless, Australia achieved victory in Brisbane with each of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven exceptionally brilliant, ably assisted by Michael Neser, Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in a flawless exhibition with the gloves, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I played with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation for Australia has been the change in the batting order.

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

That debate is now resolved, just not in the manner anyone predicted.

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, there seems to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

This represents a great shame for both athletes. I know the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the effort involved in coming back from injuries, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

Adelaide will be a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England recovered from a two-nil deficit to draw the previous series. They are aware England poses a threat.

On this occasion, they hold England by the throat and should not relent just because key players are returning. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning every Test it plays, so for that reason this team should be thinking about winning 5-0.

England understands they are compelled but to turn things around at Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to 5-0.