'People keep ribbing me' over the Ashes being over ahead of my trip.

Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an Three Lions follower ask for?

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to reclaim the urn following the initial matches.

That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, the organized fan base, have a large group flying out for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

There are also organized trips who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as relatives and companions planning a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

The Ryding siblings are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", anticipating a rare England series success.

Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their house in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been teasing me regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"The hope was that we would have a meaningful contest upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under before it began.

Yet now they are facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the fourth Test gets under way in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.

One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "reinvigorated" the five-day game for English supporters.

But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit references this, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the top order."

Future Prospects

Asked whether he believed England will win a match in this contest, Sam said: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good at the moment."

"It will require multiple performers that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a fantastic experience anyway," added another sibling. "We have to go with that attitude."

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

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year in Australia. This will be mine and Rory's first time traveling over Christmas."

An educator, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her Christmas holidays.

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