🔗 Share this article

Beyond Australia's wildest dreams could they have believed they would be 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 going into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered England a lesson in how to play the longest format, especially day-night Test cricket.

A Critical Juncture

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

I got a close look at England's style throughout the 2023 Ashes in the UK. For all of the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series down under, there was considerable doubt among Australian pundits about the way the English team performs.

Would England's batting be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and discover methods to get out? Might they collapse when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

At present, all of the Australian observers who expressed doubts regarding England are being proved right.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists a lot I like about England's attitude. I love it when athletes compete fearlessly, because that helps them to extend the limits of potential.

However, I disagree with the notion that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players excel when challenged, and the best teams hold each other to account.

"Indeed, there existed support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even when a young player, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Every player assumed ownership of the team.

Then, if a player deviated of line, they faced consequences by the other players. If someone made an error repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions served the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together because of the love we had for each other, such was the amount of time we had as a group.

That sense of duty, obligation and flexibility all came together when we stepped on to the field as a unit.

Admittedly, all of these things are easier when a team is winning, which England are not doing right now.

Examining the Approach

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

It was almost as if England had concluded conditions had to adapt to their game, instead of the team adjusting their strategy to the prevailing conditions.

Finally, in the aftermath of the defeat at the Gabba, it looks like realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged there are issues, and they must to do something to address them.

I have no issue with the statements the England leaders made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been strong publicly, you can guarantee they have been forceful behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Will we now see a new version of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I support the element of competing without fear. If England can add the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still be on to something.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia deserve a huge amount of credit.

If England been informed they would face an Australia team without all of their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been delighted with anticipation.

And yet, Australia pulled off a win in Brisbane with all of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

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

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

Maybe the most significant revelation for Australia has been the change within the top order.

Before the series, when it appeared to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was only really a debate about one area - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion has been settled, just not in a way anyone expected.

Settling the Order

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to open when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might face difficulty to get back in, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he could bat in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I understand how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the effort that goes into coming back from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this contest. They are surely heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to lead.

The Final Word

Australia recalls how England recovered from 2-0 down to level the last Ashes. They will know England are dangerous.

This time, they hold England by the throat and must not relent merely because some big names are coming back. They cannot becoming overconfident.

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

England will know they are compelled but to turn things around in Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be 5-0.