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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an supporter of the English team ask for?

Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn following the initial matches.

That will not be happening during this tour, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters making the journey for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.

Furthermore, other travel parties who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as families and friends planning a special expedition.

Fans with Booked Tickets

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

The group had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

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

"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity regarding the team's prospects of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.

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

Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, came the reply: "It appears the Australians are superior at the moment."

"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are excited about the trip.

"We are going to have a wonderful trip regardless," said Katie. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Of course, it's a let-down we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We plan to savor celebrating the holidays overseas. This will be our first experience abroad over Christmas."

A teacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.

"If all else fails, there's always golf to rely on," she finished.