🔗 Share this article

Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an England cricket fan possibly want?

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.

That will not be happening this time, though, after the hosts' dominant victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side 3-0 up for the fourth consecutive series on home turf.

The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have a large group flying out for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.

Furthermore, other travel parties who will celebrate the holidays overseas, as well as relatives and companions planning a dream holiday.

The Ryding Siblings

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their house in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"The hope was that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for English supporters.

However, the group said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Commentators consistently references this, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'The aggressive approach has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'wide of off stump has never featured in the textbooks, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a wonderful trip regardless," added another sibling. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Of course, it's a let-down we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year out there. This will be our first experience abroad at this time of year."

A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the lengthy journey as part of her time off.

"As a backup plan, there's always golf to rely on," she finished.