The English Need to Win Next Test or Ashes Could Become Embarrassing - Legendary Bowler

Beyond Australia's wildest dreams would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in the current historic rivalry following just a mere six days of cricket.

They were put under the pump by England during the opener at the WACA, then pulled off 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, particularly pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

The contest remains alive, however, it's not far from it. Should England fail to win the Adelaide Test, it will get embarrassing.

I gained a close look at England's style during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the talk about this tour being their chance to ultimately secure a victory down under, there was a lot of doubt among Australian pundits about the way the English team performs.

Would England's batting be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they play big shots and discover methods to lose their wickets? Would they crumble under the pressure during crucial phases?

Right now, all of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are seeing their views right.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists a lot I admire regarding England's mindset. I appreciate it when athletes compete fearlessly, as this enables them push the boundaries of what is possible.

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

"Yes, there were support staff like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the captain and experienced players who always ran the dressing room."

Even when a newcomer, I believed I had permission to voice my opinion. Every player assumed responsibility for the squad's performance.

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

The Australian Blueprint

Our team contained several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - but we all felt that what we were doing was for the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we united due to the affection we had for each other, so extensive was the duration we spent together.

That sense of duty, responsibility and flexibility collectively manifested as we walked onto the pitch as a unit.

Admittedly, these factors are easier while a side is winning, which England are not doing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My concern regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style yielded a culture deficient in accountability.

It seemed as if England had concluded conditions had to adapt to them, rather than England adapting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Ultimately, in the aftermath of the defeat in Brisbane, it appears the penny has dropped.

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

I have no problems with what the English leadership said in public after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong publicly, one can be sure they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Might we witness a new version of Bazball? Like I said, I like the aspect of competing without fear. Provided England can add the ingredients of embracing pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still possess 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 without all of Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt rubbing their hands with glee.

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

Australian Standouts

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in 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 has been the change in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I said there was essentially just a debate about one area - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

The New Opening Pair

From the moment Travis Head stuck his hand up to open when Khawaja got hurt in Perth, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to regain his place, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature in the middle order.

Injuries and the Adelaide Test

Injuries will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

That is a great shame for both athletes. I know how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in recovering from setbacks, and how eager both players were to play a full part in this series. They will be devastated.

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

The Final Word

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

This time, they have England by the throat and must not relent merely because key players are returning. They cannot becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it can win every Test it contests, so for that reason this team should be thinking for a 5-0.

England understands they are compelled but to turn things around in Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.