'People keep ribbing me' regarding the series being over ahead of my trip.

Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an supporter of the English team ask for?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, England's supporters' group, have 3,000 fans traveling for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.

Furthermore, other tour groups who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as loved ones embarking on a dream holiday.

Fans with Booked Tickets

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

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", anticipating a historic English victory.

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

"All my colleagues has been giving me grief that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"The hope was that we would have something to play for still when we got there."

Fading Positivity

There was plenty of positivity 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 staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the fourth Test gets under way in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.

It was mentioned that the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "renewed interest in" the longest format for English supporters.

Yet the fans said they had low expectations for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are requesting from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never featured in the textbooks, and that is largely because of the top order."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, one fan responded: "It appears the Australians are superior currently."

"It will require several individuals that delivers for the team and turns the game."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are anticipating the trip.

"We will have a fantastic experience regardless," added another sibling. "We have to go with that outlook."

"Obviously it is disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have spent so much money by now."

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year out there. Additionally, it's our first experience abroad during the festive period."

An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.

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