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

Ideally, they'd want an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes once the opening games are done.

That will not be happening during this tour, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters flying out for the concluding fixtures in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will be vacationing overseas, as well as families and friends planning a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are four such fans.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their house in their hometown.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"We always thought that we would have a meaningful contest by the time we arrived."

Fading Positivity

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.

The England team - and their fans - will be hoping to sidestep a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent times had "reinvigorated" the five-day game for English supporters.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"All analysts points it out, but it all is about psychological strength. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never been in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, Sam said: "It appears the Aussies are just too good currently."

"It will require multiple performers that stands up for England and turns the game."

Even with the series lost, the siblings are still anticipating the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that outlook."

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

"We plan to savor spending the festive season out there. This will be mine and Rory's first time abroad over Christmas."

A schoolteacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.

"If all else fails, there's always golf to turn to," she added.