England's Need to Win Next Match or Series Will Get Embarrassing - McGrath

Beyond the Aussies' wildest dreams would they have imagined they would be 2-0 up in this Ashes series following just only six days of cricket.

They were placed under severe pressure by England in the first Test in Perth, before executing an incredible turnaround.

This propelled them on a wave of self-belief going into the Brisbane encounter, where they gave England a lesson on playing Test cricket, especially pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

The contest is not dead, but it's perilously close. Should England fail to win the third Test, the situation could become deeply humiliating.

I gained a close look of England's approach during the 2023 Ashes on English soil. Despite all the talk regarding this trip representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series down under, there was considerable doubt among Australian pundits concerning the manner the English team performs.

Would England's batting be appropriate for the pitches in Australia? Would they attempt big shots and find ways to get out? Would they crumble when pressure mounted during crucial phases?

Right now, every one of the Australian observers who expressed doubts about England are being proved right.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists a lot I like about England's attitude. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, as this enables them to extend the boundaries of potential.

However, I disagree with the idea that external pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. Elite performers thrive under pressure, and the best teams hold each other to account.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches such as Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and senior players who always ran the team environment."

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

Subsequently, should someone stepped out from the standard, they faced consequences from their teammates. If someone made a mistake on more than one occasion - which didn't happen very often - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the great Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that our actions served the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together because of the love we shared, such was the amount of time we had as a group.

That accountability, obligation and adaptability collectively manifested as we walked onto the pitch as a unit.

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

Examining the Approach

My worry regarding England stemmed from the philosophy of a rigid style yielded a culture that lacks personal responsibility.

It was almost as if England had concluded pitches must conform to their game, instead of England adapting their strategy to the prevailing conditions.

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

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

I hold no problems 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 even stronger behind closed doors.

Evolution Required

Will we now see an evolved form of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of competing without fear. Provided England can add the ingredients of pressure and mutual accountability, then they may still be on to something.

Despite the fact England have faced criticism, Australia deserve significant credit for their performance.

Had England had been told they would face an Australia team without all of their captain Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been delighted with anticipation.

And yet, Australia achieved a win at the Gabba with all of their other players standing up.

Australian Standouts

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

Alex Carey delivered a flawless exhibition behind the stumps, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Gilchrist.

Maybe the most significant discovery for Australia has been the change within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed there was considerable discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was only really one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's batting partner.

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

The New Opening Pair

Ever since Travis Head volunteered to bat as an opener following Khawaja's injury during the Perth Test, Australia have looked transformed. Now, it appears there is a chance for Head and Jake Weatherald to establish themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to get back in, although Australia coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he could bat in the middle order.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the Adelaide Test and the rest of the series.

That is an unfortunate situation for both men. I know how much hard work it is to bowl fast, the dedication involved in recovering from injuries, and how eager both players were to participate fully in this contest. They will be heartbroken.

Adelaide will be a quality surface, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly reinstate spinner Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to lead.

Closing Thoughts

Australia recalls how England recovered from 2-0 down to level the last Ashes. They will know England are dangerous.

On this occasion, they hold England by the throat and must not relent just because key players are returning. They must avoid get complacent.

An Australian side should always think it is capable of winning every Test it plays, so for that reason this squad should be thinking for a five-nil whitewash.

England understands they are compelled to reverse their fortunes at Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be 5-0.