Aussies learn to 'adapt on the go'

ASHES: SMITH SAYS TEAM JUST RISES TO THE OCCASION

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Australia's ability to adapt and rise in key moments has thrust them to the cusp of retaining the Ashes, with Steve Smith saying it is a process they have fine-tuned.

The hosts are firmly in the box seat against a ragged England after winning the first two Tests at Perth and Brisbane, both by eight wickets.

They head to Adelaide for the third encounter beginning on 17 December planning more of the same to secure the five-Test series for the fourth consecutive time on home soil.

The wily Smith, who captained the side in both Tests while Pat Cummins recovered from a back injury, said Australia's experience had come to the fore during crunch periods so far.