The English Must to Win Next Test or Series Will Get Embarrassing - McGrath

Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in the current Ashes series following just a mere six days of cricket.

The hosts were put under the pump by the tourists in the first Test in Perth, then pulled off an incredible reversal.

It put them on a wave of confidence going into the second Test, where they gave England a masterclass in how to play the longest format, especially day-night Test cricket.

Series on the Brink

This series is not dead, but it's not far from it. Should England don't win the Adelaide Test, it will get deeply humiliating.

I got a close look at England's style during the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the discussion about this tour being their chance to ultimately secure a victory in Australia, there was considerable doubt in this country concerning the manner England play.

Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and discover methods to lose their wickets? Might they collapse under the pressure during crucial phases?

At present, every one of the Australian observers who were sceptical regarding England are being proved right.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I admire about England's attitude. I appreciate it when sportspeople play without fear, as this enables them push the boundaries of what is possible.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players excel when challenged, and the best teams hold each other to account.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches like Bob Simpson and John Buchanan, but it was the skipper and experienced players who always ran the dressing room."

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

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they were held consequences from their teammates. If someone made a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were addressed.

The Australian Blueprint

We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - but we all felt that what we were doing was for the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together due to the affection we had for each other, so extensive was the duration we had as a group.

That sense of duty, obligation and adaptability all came together as we walked on to the field as a unit.

Certainly, these factors prove simpler while a side secures victories, which England are not doing at this moment.

A Culture in Question

My concern regarding 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 England adapting their strategy to suit the conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the loss at the Gabba, it appears realisation has dawned.

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum conceded there are issues, and they must to do something to address them.

I have no problems with the statements the English leadership said in public at the Gabba. If Stokes and McCullum have been strong in the media, you can guarantee they have been even more even stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the element of playing without fear. If England can incorporate the ingredients of pressure and accountability, then they might still possess a viable formula.

Despite the fact England have been criticised, Australia merits a huge amount for their performance.

Had England had been told they would play an Australia team lacking Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have felt delighted with anticipation.

And yet, Australia achieved victory at the Gabba with each of their remaining players rising to the occasion.

Australian Standouts

Pacer Mitchell Starc has been absolutely outstanding, ably assisted by Michael Neser, Boland and Brendan Doggett.

Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition with the gloves, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I played with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant revelation for Australia is the shift in the batting order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed there was considerable discussion about the Australia line-up, I said there was only really a debate concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

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

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the opening pair.

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

Absences and the Next Challenge

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

That is an unfortunate situation for both men. I know the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the effort involved in recovering from injuries, and how eager both would have been to participate fully in this series. They will be heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a quality surface, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will return to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

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

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

An Australian side must always believe it can win each match it plays, therefore this team should be thinking about winning 5-0.

England will know they are compelled to reverse their fortunes in Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.