'I'm getting constant stick' over the series being over before I get there.

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 retain a possibility to win back the Ashes once the opening games are done.

This is not the case this time, though, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, the organized fan base, have a large group flying out for the concluding fixtures in Sydney and Melbourne.

In addition, there are tour groups who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as families and friends embarking on a dream holiday.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are four such fans.

The four siblings had their flights and tickets arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period 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 the series on the line upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.

Yet now they are facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.

Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

Yet the fans said they had low expectations for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the textbooks, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Prompted about he believed England will secure a victory in this contest, Sam said: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."

"There is going to have to be more than one player that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that mindset."

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

"We will make the most of spending the festive season in Australia. Additionally, it's a new experience for us traveling at this time of year."

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

"If all else fails, there's always golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.