The English Need to Triumph in Next Test or Series Will Get Embarrassing - McGrath

Beyond Australia's wildest dreams could they have believed they would be 2-0 up in the current Ashes series following just a mere six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by England in the first Test in Perth, before executing a remarkable turnaround.

This propelled them riding a crest of self-belief heading into the second Test, where they gave the English side a masterclass on playing Test cricket, especially day-night Test cricket.

A Critical Juncture

The contest is not dead, but it's not far from it. If England fail to win the third Test, it will get embarrassing.

I got a close look of England's approach during the last Ashes series in the UK. Despite all the discussion about this tour representing their opportunity to ultimately secure a series down under, existed a lot of scepticism among Australian pundits concerning the manner England play.

Would England's batting be suited to Australian conditions? Would they play big shots and find ways to get out? Might they collapse under the pressure of the big moments?

Right now, all of the Australian observers who expressed doubts regarding England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There exists much I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople compete fearlessly, because that helps them push the limits of potential.

But I don't like the notion that external pressure or expectation should be eliminated. Elite performers excel when challenged, and top-tier teams ensure members to account.

"Indeed, there existed the coaches like Bob Simpson and Buchanan, however, it was the captain and experienced players who invariably managed the dressing room."

Even as a newcomer, I believed I was allowed to voice my opinion. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Then, if a player deviated of line, they were held consequences by the other players. If an individual committed a mistake repeatedly - an uncommon occurrence frequently - they were addressed.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained several dominant characters - none bigger than the legendary Shane Warne - but we all felt that our actions served the team and for each other. Matthew Hayden used to say we pulled together because of the love we shared, such was the duration we had as a group.

That accountability, responsibility and flexibility all came together when we stepped onto the pitch as a unit.

Certainly, these factors prove simpler when a team is winning, a scenario England are currently not experiencing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My worry for England was the message of "this is the way we play" fostered an environment that lacks accountability.

It was almost as if England had decided conditions had to adapt to them, instead of the team adjusting their game to the prevailing conditions.

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

Both Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged problems exist, and they must take action about it.

I have no issue with what the England leaders made publicly after the Brisbane Test. Should the captain and coach have been forthright publicly, you can guarantee they have been even stronger in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Will we now see a new version of Bazball? As I mentioned, I support the element of competing without fear. If England can incorporate the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still possess a viable formula.

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

Had England had been told they would play an Australian side lacking Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with anticipation.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off victory at the Gabba with all of their other players rising to the occasion.

Key Performers for Australia

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

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass behind the stumps, possibly the best display of keeping I've ever seen - and I shared a dressing room with Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery for Australia is the shift within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when it appeared to be a lot of discussion regarding Australia's lineup, I said there was only really one question concerning one position - batter Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion is now resolved, simply not in the manner anyone predicted.

Settling the Order

Ever since Batsman Travis Head volunteered to open following Khawaja's injury in Perth, Australia has appeared transformed. Now, it appears there is a chance for Travis Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja could face difficulty to get back in, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has indicated he could bat at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Injuries will result in England's Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the remainder of the series.

This represents an unfortunate situation for both athletes. I know the immense effort required to bowl quickly, the dedication that goes into coming back from injuries, and how eager both players were to participate fully in this series. They will be heartbroken.

The Adelaide Oval will provide a good pitch, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will certainly recall Lyon and it seems Cummins will be back to captain the side.

Closing Thoughts

Australia will remember how England recovered from 2-0 down to level the last Ashes. They are aware England poses a threat.

This time, they have England in a stranglehold and should not relent just because key players are returning. They cannot becoming overconfident.

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

England will know they are compelled to reverse their fortunes at Adelaide. Failure to do so, then it really could be a 5-0 series defeat.