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

Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters traveling for the concluding fixtures in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other tour groups who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as families and friends heading for 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 Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a historic English victory.

From afar, they've seen Australia outplay the visitors in just a short period from their residence in the north of England.

"Everyone at work has been making comments that the series is done for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

Yet now they are facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The tourists - and their supporters - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for English supporters.

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

"Commentators consistently references this, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, impractical batting," commented another sibling.

"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in the current series, came the reply: "It appears the Aussies are just too good at the moment."

"There is going to have to be multiple performers that stands up for England and turns the game."

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

"We will have a great time regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that attitude."

"Obviously it is disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We will make the most of spending the festive season in Australia. It is also a new experience for us away from home at this time of year."

A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her time off.

"As a backup plan, I've got golf to turn to," she finished.