England's Need to Triumph in Upcoming Test or Ashes Will Get Embarrassing - Legendary Bowler

Not in the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current historic rivalry after playing only six days of play.

They were placed under severe pressure by England in the first Test at the WACA, then pulled off an incredible reversal.

This propelled them on a wave of self-belief heading into the second Test, where they delivered the English side a masterclass in how to play Test cricket, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, however, it's not far from it. If England don't win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I gained an intimate view of England's approach throughout the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the discussion regarding this trip being their chance to finally win a victory down under, there was a lot of scepticism among Australian pundits 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 get out? Would they crumble under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are seeing their views validated.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists much I admire regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when athletes play without fear, because that helps them push the limits of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the idea that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and top-tier teams ensure members are accountable.

"Yes, there were the coaches such as Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who invariably managed the dressing room."

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

Then, if a player deviated of line, they faced consequences by the other players. If an individual committed an error on more than one occasion - which didn't happen very often - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained some huge personalities - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together because of the love we shared, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

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

Admittedly, all of these things are easier while a side is winning, a scenario England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My concern for England was the message of a rigid style yielded a culture deficient in accountability.

It seemed as if England had concluded pitches must conform to them, instead of the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Finally, following the result of the defeat at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they must take action about it.

I have no problems with the statements the English leadership made publicly at the Gabba. Should the captain and coach have been strong in the media, one can be sure they have been even more forceful behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Will we now see a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of playing fearlessly. If England can incorporate the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit of credit.

Had England had been told they would face an Australian side lacking their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt delighted with glee.

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

Australian Standouts

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

Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass behind the stumps, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I played with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery from an Australian perspective is the change within the top order.

Before the series, when there seemed there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was only really one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

That discussion is now resolved, simply not in the manner anyone predicted.

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia have looked like a different team. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja could face difficulty to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I understand the immense effort it is to bowl fast, the dedication that goes into recovering from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this contest. They will be heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will be a quality surface, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to captain the side.

The Final Word

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

This time, they hold England in a stranglehold and must not let up just because key players are coming back. They cannot get complacent.

An Australia team should always think it can win every Test it contests, therefore this squad ought to be aiming about winning 5-0.

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