🔗 Share this article

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an Three Lions follower possibly want?

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.

England's famous supporters' group, England's supporters' group, have 3,000 fans flying out for the last two matches in the SCG and MCG.

There are also tour groups who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as loved ones embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are four such fans.

The group had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.

However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "excitement and fun" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the longest format for England fans.

However, the group said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," commented another sibling.

"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the frontline batsmen."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, Sam said: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good currently."

"There is going to have to be more than one player that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the siblings are still looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a great time nonetheless," said Katie. "We have to go with that attitude."

"Of course, it's disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount already."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year in Australia. It is also mine and Rory's first time away from home during the festive period."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.

"If all else fails, I've got golf to fall back on," she added.