🔗 Share this article

Not in the Aussies' wildest dreams could they have believed they'd find themselves 2-0 up in the current historic rivalry following just only six days of play.

They were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test at the WACA, before executing a remarkable turnaround.

It put them on a wave of confidence going into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave England a lesson on playing Test cricket, particularly day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series remains alive, however, it's perilously close. If England fail to win the Adelaide Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I gained a close look at England's style during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the discussion about this tour being their chance to finally win a victory in Australia, existed a lot of scepticism in this country concerning the manner the English team performs.

Would England's batting be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they play aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse under the pressure of the big moments?

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

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I like regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople play without fear, as this enables them to extend the limits of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members are accountable.

"Indeed, there existed support staff like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the skipper and experienced players who always ran the team environment."

Even as a young player, I believed I was allowed to have my say. Everyone took responsibility for the squad's performance.

Subsequently, should a player deviated of line, they faced accountable by the other players. If someone made a mistake on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence very often - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

Our team contained 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 often stated we pulled together because of the love we had for each other, such was the duration we had as a group.

That accountability, obligation and flexibility collectively manifested as we walked on to the field as a team.

Admittedly, these factors prove simpler 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 deficient in personal responsibility.

It was almost as if England had concluded pitches must conform to them, rather than the team adjusting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Finally, in the aftermath of the loss at the Gabba, it appears the penny has dropped.

Both Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum acknowledged there are issues, and they must take action to address them.

I have no issue with what the English leadership made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been strong publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more even stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Will we now see a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I support the element of playing without fear. Provided England can incorporate the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still be on to something.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia deserve significant credit of credit.

Had England been informed they would play an Australian side lacking their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with anticipation.

And yet, Australia pulled off victory in Brisbane with all of their remaining players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass with the gloves, possibly the best display of keeping I have witnessed - and I played with Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery from an Australian perspective is the change in the batting order.

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

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

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to open following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could face difficulty to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

That is a great shame for both athletes. I know how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the effort that goes into recovering from injuries, and how eager both would have been to play a full part in this series. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a quality surface, offering something for batsmen and bowlers. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England recovered from a two-nil deficit to level the previous series. They will know England poses a threat.

On this occasion, they hold England in a stranglehold and should not let up merely because key players are coming back. They cannot becoming overconfident.

An Australia team should always think it can win each match it contests, therefore this team should be thinking about winning five-nil whitewash.

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