The English Must to Triumph in Next Match or Ashes Could Become Embarrassing - McGrath

Not in Australia's wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this historic rivalry following just a mere six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by England in the first Test at the WACA, before executing an incredible reversal.

It put them riding a crest of confidence going into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave England a masterclass on playing the longest format, especially pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

The contest is not dead, 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 in the UK. Despite all the talk about this tour being their chance to ultimately secure a series down under, existed considerable scepticism among Australian pundits concerning the manner the English team performs.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they attempt big shots and discover methods to get out? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

Right now, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts about England are being proved right.

Attitude and Accountability

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

However, I disagree with the notion that external pressure or expectation should be eliminated. The great players excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the skipper and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even when a newcomer, I felt like I had permission to voice my opinion. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Subsequently, should a player deviated from the standard, they were held accountable by the other players. If someone made a mistake repeatedly - which didn't happen very often - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions served the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we had for each other, so extensive was the amount of time we had as a group.

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

Admittedly, these factors prove simpler when a team is winning, a scenario England are not doing right now.

A Culture in Question

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in accountability.

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

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

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they must to do something about it.

I have no problems with the statements the English leadership said in public after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness a new version of Bazball? Like I said, I support the aspect of competing without fear. Provided England can add the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still possess to something.

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

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

Nevertheless, Australia achieved a win in Brisbane with all of their remaining players standing up.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, arguably the finest display of keeping I have witnessed - and I played with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery from an Australian perspective is the change in the batting order.

Before the series, when there seemed there was considerable debate regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was only really a debate concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion 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 has appeared like a different team. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja might find it tough to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he could bat at number five.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

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

This represents a great shame for both men. I know how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the effort that goes into recovering from setbacks, and how desperate both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, offering something for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England came from 2-0 down to level the last Ashes. They are aware England are dangerous.

This time, they hold England in a stranglehold and should not let up just because some big names are coming back. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it can win each match it plays, therefore this squad ought to be aiming for a five-nil whitewash.

England understands they are compelled to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.