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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an England cricket fan possibly want?

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.

This is not the case during this tour, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.

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

There are also organized trips who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as relatives and companions planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Fans with Booked Tickets

The Ryding siblings are four such fans.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"All my colleagues has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"The hope was that we would have a meaningful contest by the time we arrived."

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for England fans.

Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, one fan responded: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good at the moment."

"It will require multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."

Regardless of the result, the fans are excited about the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," added another sibling. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Naturally, it's unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year out there. This will be mine and Rory's first time abroad during the festive period."

A teacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the lengthy journey as part of her Christmas holidays.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to rely on," Katie concluded.