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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an Three Lions follower possibly want?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to reclaim the urn after the first three Tests.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have thousands of supporters making the journey for the last two matches in New South Wales and Victoria.

In addition, there are travel parties who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as loved ones planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

The Ryding siblings are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"People in the office has been giving me grief that the series is done for the last two weeks," said Sam.

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

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.

Yet now they are staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.

One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent times had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for English supporters.

But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "some resilience".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the textbooks, and that is mainly the fault the frontline batsmen."

Looking Ahead

Prompted about he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"It will require multiple performers that delivers for the team and turns the game."

Despite the scoreline, the siblings are still excited about the trip.

"It will be a great time anyway," added another sibling. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Of course, it's a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have made a substantial financial commitment as it is."

"We will make the most of spending the festive season out there. It is also mine and Rory's first time away from home during the festive period."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to rely on," Katie concluded.