🔗 Share this article

Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an Three Lions follower ask for?

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

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on home turf.

England's famous supporters' group, the organized fan base, have 3,000 fans traveling for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

There are also travel parties who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as loved ones heading for a dream holiday.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their residence in the north of England.

"People in the office has been making comments that the series is done for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia before it began.

But they are now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

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

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for followers of the team.

But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "a bit of fight".

"All analysts references this, but it all is about fortitude. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."

"There is going to have to be more than one player that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the siblings are still looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a fantastic experience anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that attitude."

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

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year in Australia. This will be a new experience for us traveling over Christmas."

A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to rely on," she added.