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

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.

This is not the case this time, though, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on home turf.

The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have a large group traveling for the concluding fixtures in New South Wales and Victoria.

There are also tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as families and friends planning a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

The Ryding siblings are four such fans.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

Sadly, they've observed Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their residence in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"People in the office has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest by the time we arrived."

Fading Positivity

Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under before it began.

Yet now they are facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day.

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

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"All analysts references this, but it all is about fortitude. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'wide of off stump has not been part of the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."

The Remaining Matches

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good currently."

"Necessarily, there must be multiple performers that delivers for the team and turns the game."

Despite the scoreline, the group remains excited about the trip.

"It will be a wonderful trip nonetheless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Naturally, it's unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have spent so much money by now."

"We'll enjoy spending the festive season in Australia. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time away from home during the festive period."

A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her time off.

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