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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an England cricket fan possibly want?

Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after a comprehensive triumph 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 3,000 fans traveling for the concluding fixtures in Sydney and Melbourne.

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

The Ryding Siblings

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", anticipating a rare England series success.

Sadly, they've observed Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their residence in their hometown.

"People in the office has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"The hope was that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.

But they are now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

The tourists - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"During a long match, you should dig in. Wafting outside 'outside the line has not been part of the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."

Future Prospects

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, one fan responded: "It appears the Australians are superior at the moment."

"It will require multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Despite the scoreline, the group remains anticipating the trip.

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

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

"We plan to savor spending the festive season overseas. This will be our first experience traveling at this time of year."

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

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to fall back on," she finished.