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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an England cricket fan ask for?

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

That will not be happening during this tour, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, England's supporters' group, have 3,000 fans flying out for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.

There are also organized trips who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as loved ones embarking on a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

The Ryding siblings are four such fans.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a rare England series success.

Instead, they have watched Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"All my colleagues has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"The hope was that we would have a meaningful contest still when we got there."

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia before it began.

However, the situation is now facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.

The England team - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "renewed interest in" the longest format for followers of the team.

Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit references this, but it all is about fortitude. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, impractical batting," commented another sibling.

"During a long match, you should dig in. Playing at deliveries 'wide of off stump has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Prompted about he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior currently."

"It will require multiple performers that delivers for the team and turns the game."

Despite the scoreline, the siblings are still looking forward to the trip.

"We are going to have a fantastic experience anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that outlook."

"Obviously it is unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We plan to savor spending the festive season out there. Additionally, it's our first experience traveling over Christmas."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her time off.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to rely on," Katie concluded.