The English Must to Triumph in Upcoming Match or Series Will Get Humiliating - McGrath

Beyond Australia's most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they would be 2-0 up 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 turnaround.

This propelled them on a wave of confidence heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered England a masterclass on playing Test cricket, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

The contest remains alive, however, it's not far from it. Should England don't win the third Test, it will get embarrassing.

I got a close look of England's approach throughout the last Ashes series in the UK. For all of the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series down under, there was a lot of scepticism in this country about the way the English team performs.

Would England's batting be suited to the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse when pressure mounted of the big moments?

Right now, all of the Australians who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views validated.

Mindset and Responsibility

There exists a lot I admire about England's attitude. I appreciate it when sportspeople 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 thrive under pressure, and the best teams hold each other are accountable.

"Yes, there were support staff such as Simpson and John Buchanan, however, it was the skipper and senior players who always ran the team environment."

Even as a young player, I felt like I had permission to have my say. Everyone took responsibility for the squad's performance.

Then, if a player deviated of line, they were held accountable from their teammates. If an individual committed an error on more than one occasion - which didn't happen frequently - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions was for the team and for each other. Opener Matthew Hayden often stated we united because of the love we shared, so extensive was the duration we spent together.

That sense of duty, responsibility and adaptability collectively manifested when we stepped onto the pitch as a unit.

Admittedly, these factors prove simpler while a side secures victories, which England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

A Culture in Question

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

It seemed that England had decided pitches must conform to them, instead of England adapting their game to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the defeat at the Gabba, it appears realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged there are issues, and they must take action about it.

I hold no issue with what the English leadership made publicly at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

A New Version?

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I support the aspect of playing fearlessly. If England can incorporate the elements of embracing pressure and accountability, then they may still possess to something.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia merits significant credit of credit.

Had England been informed they would play an Australia team lacking their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off victory in Brisbane with each of their remaining players standing up.

Australian Standouts

Pacer Mitchell Starc has proven absolutely outstanding, supported by Michael Neser, Scott Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition with the gloves, possibly the best wicketkeeping performance I've ever seen - and I played with Healy and Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery for Australia has been the change in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was essentially just a debate about one area - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That debate has been settled, simply not in a way anyone expected.

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to open when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, there seems there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

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 will miss the third Test and the remainder of the series.

That is a great shame for both men. I understand how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the effort that goes into coming back from injuries, and how desperate 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 batsmen and bowlers. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England recovered from 2-0 down to draw the previous series. They are aware England poses a threat.

On this occasion, they hold England by the throat and should not let up just because key players are returning. They cannot becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it can win every Test it contests, therefore this squad ought to be aiming 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.