'I'm getting constant stick' over the Ashes concluding before I get there.

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

Ideally, they'd want an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

This is not the case during this tour, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.

England's famous supporters' group, the organized fan base, have thousands of supporters flying out for the last two matches in the SCG and MCG.

In addition, there are tour groups who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as families and friends planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a historic English victory.

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

"The hope was that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under before it began.

But they are now looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

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

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "reinvigorated" the longest format for English supporters.

Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the textbooks, and that is largely because of the top order."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will win a match in this contest, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior currently."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that delivers for the team and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a great time nonetheless," added another sibling. "Our approach is that outlook."

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

"We will make the most of spending the festive season overseas. This will be a new experience for us away from home over Christmas."

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

"If all else fails, I've got golf to fall back on," she finished.