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

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.

That will not be happening during this tour, after a comprehensive 82-run win in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have thousands of supporters traveling for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.

Furthermore, other travel parties who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as families and friends heading for a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

The Ryding siblings are among those affected.

The four siblings had their flights and tickets secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"All my colleagues has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Fading Positivity

Optimism was high about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.

However, the situation is now facing the prospect of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

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

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all is about mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never been in the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the frontline batsmen."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this contest, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"There is going to have to be multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."

Regardless of the result, the siblings are still excited about the trip.

"It will be a fantastic experience anyway," added another sibling. "We must adopt that attitude."

"Of course, it's unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have spent so much money as it is."

"We plan to savor celebrating the holidays in Australia. It is also a new experience for us away from home during the festive period."

A teacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.

"If all else fails, I've got golf to turn to," she finished.