🔗 Share this article

Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes could they have believed they would be leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry after playing a mere six days of cricket.

The hosts were put under the pump by England in the first Test at the WACA, before executing an incredible reversal.

This propelled them riding a crest of self-belief heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave the English side a masterclass on playing the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

This series is not dead, but it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the third Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I gained an intimate view of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. For all of the talk regarding this trip being their chance to ultimately secure a series in Australia, there was a lot of scepticism among Australian pundits about the way England play.

Was the English batting lineup be suited to Australian conditions? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and discover methods to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

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

Mindset and Responsibility

There is a lot I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when athletes compete fearlessly, because that helps them push the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the notion that external pressure or expectation needs to be removed. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members are accountable.

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

Even when a young player, I felt like I was allowed to have my say. Every player assumed responsibility for the squad's performance.

Subsequently, should a player deviated of line, they were held consequences from their teammates. If someone made a mistake repeatedly - which didn't happen frequently - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that what we were doing was for the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden used to say we united due to the affection we shared, so extensive was the amount of time we spent together.

That sense of duty, obligation and flexibility collectively manifested as we walked on to the field as a unit.

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

A Culture in Question

My worry for England was the message of "this is the way we play" yielded a culture that lacks personal responsibility.

It was almost as if England had concluded pitches must conform to them, rather than England adapting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Finally, following the result of the defeat in Brisbane, it appears realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged problems exist, and they need take action about it.

I have no problems with what the English leadership said in public after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright in the media, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors.

A New Version?

Might we witness a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of playing without fear. If England can add the elements of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still possess to something.

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

If England been informed they would play an Australian side lacking Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been delighted with glee.

And yet, Australia achieved victory in Brisbane with all of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass 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 for Australia has been the change within the top 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 - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion has been settled, simply not in a way anyone predicted.

Settling the Order

From the moment Travis Head volunteered to open following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia have looked transformed. Now, there seems there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the opening pair.

Khawaja could face difficulty to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he could bat at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries 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 men. I understand how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the effort involved in coming back from injuries, and how desperate both would have been to play a full part in this contest. They are surely devastated.

The Adelaide Oval will be a quality surface, offering something for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to lead.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England came from 2-0 down to draw the previous series. They will know England are dangerous.

This time, they have England by the throat and should not let up merely because some big names are returning. They cannot get complacent.

An Australia team must always believe it can win each match it contests, so for that reason this team ought to be aiming about winning five-nil whitewash.

England will know they are compelled to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. Failure to do so, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.