🔗 Share this article

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

Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters flying out for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as relatives and companions planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Fans with Booked Tickets

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.

Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their house in the north of England.

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

"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under ahead of the tour.

But they are now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

Ben Stokes' side - and their supporters - will be hoping to sidestep a whitewash.

One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for England fans.

But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Wafting outside 'wide of off stump has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the frontline batsmen."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are anticipating the trip.

"We will have a great time nonetheless," added another sibling. "We have to go with that attitude."

"Of course, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays overseas. Additionally, it's a new experience for us traveling during the festive period."

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

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to rely on," she finished.