🔗 Share this article England's Must to Win Upcoming Test or Series Could Become Humiliating - McGrath Beyond the Aussies' most optimistic hopes would they have imagined they'd find themselves leading two-nil in this historic rivalry after playing only six days of cricket. They were put under the pump by England in the first Test in Perth, before executing an incredible turnaround. It put them on a wave of confidence heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered England a lesson on playing Test cricket, especially pink-ball matches. Series on the Brink The contest is not dead, but it's perilously close. If England don't win the Adelaide Test, the situation could become embarrassing. I gained an intimate view of England's approach throughout the last Ashes series on English soil. Despite all the talk about this tour representing their opportunity to finally win a series in Australia, existed a lot of doubt in this country about the way England play. Was the English batting lineup be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they play aggressive strokes and find ways to lose their wickets? Might they collapse under the pressure during crucial phases? At present, every one of the Australians who expressed doubts regarding England are seeing their views validated. Attitude and Accountability There exists much I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople play without fear, as this enables them to extend the boundaries of potential. However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations needs to be removed. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and the best teams ensure members to account. "Yes, there were support staff like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the skipper and experienced players who invariably managed the dressing room." Even when a young player, I felt like I was allowed to voice my opinion. Everyone took responsibility of the team. Subsequently, should a player deviated of line, they faced consequences by the other players. If an individual committed an error on more than one occasion - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were told. A Winning Formula We had several dominant characters - none bigger than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions was for the team and our comrades. Opener Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together because of the love we shared, so extensive was the duration we had as a group. That sense of duty, responsibility and flexibility all came together when we stepped on to the field as a unit. Certainly, these factors prove simpler when a team secures victories, a scenario England are currently not experiencing right now. Examining the Approach My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in personal responsibility. It seemed as if England had decided conditions had to adapt to them, rather than the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions. Ultimately, following the result of the defeat at the Gabba, it appears realisation has dawned. Both Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they need take action about it. I have no issue with the statements the English leadership made publicly after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been even more even stronger behind closed doors. Evolution Required Might we witness a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of competing without fear. Provided England can add the ingredients of pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still possess to something. Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit of credit. Had England been informed they would face an Australian side lacking their captain Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with glee. And yet, Australia achieved victory at the Gabba with all of their remaining players standing up. Key Performers for Australia Mitchell Starc has been absolutely outstanding, ably assisted by Neser, Scott Boland and Doggett. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey put in an absolute masterclass with the gloves, arguably the finest display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Healy and Adam Gilchrist. Perhaps the biggest discovery from an Australian perspective has been the change within the top order. Prior to the contest, when there seemed to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I stated there was only really one question concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's opening partner. That debate has been settled, just not in a way anyone expected. The New Opening Pair Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to open following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, there seems to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the opening pair. Khawaja might find it tough to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he might feature in the middle order. Absences and the Next Challenge Fitness issues will result in England's Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the Adelaide Test and the remainder of the series. This represents an unfortunate situation for both men. I know how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the dedication that goes into recovering from injuries, and how eager both would have been to participate fully in this contest. They are surely devastated. The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, offering something for batsmen and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly reinstate spinner Lyon and it seems Cummins will return to captain the side. Closing Thoughts Australia will remember how England came from a two-nil deficit to level the last Ashes. They are aware England poses a threat. On this occasion, they hold England in a stranglehold and must not relent just because some big names are returning. They cannot becoming overconfident. An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning every Test it contests, so for that reason this squad ought to be aiming for a 5-0. England understands they are compelled to reverse their fortunes at Adelaide. If they don't, then it really could be 5-0.