'I'm getting constant stick' over the series finishing prior to my arrival.

Spectators on tour

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an supporter of the English team ask for?

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.

This is not the case during this tour, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

There are also travel parties who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as relatives and companions heading for a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

The Ryding siblings are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just 11 days from their residence in the north of England.

"People in the office 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 the series on the line by the time we arrived."

Fading Positivity

Optimism was high about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought 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 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day.

The England team - and their fans - will be hoping to sidestep a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

It was mentioned that the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for followers of the team.

But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"All analysts alludes to it, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"There is going to have to be multiple performers that stands up for England and produces a match-winning display."

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

"We are going to have a fantastic experience regardless," added another sibling. "We must adopt that attitude."

"Naturally, it's unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount already."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays overseas. This will be a new experience for us abroad over Christmas."

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

"As a backup plan, I can play golf to fall back on," she finished.

Luis Miller
Luis Miller

A tech journalist and digital strategist passionate about exploring how technology shapes everyday life and culture.