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

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have a large group making the journey for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.

In addition, there are travel parties who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as loved ones embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are four such fans.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", hoping to witness 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 making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.

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

Fading Positivity

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.

Yet now they are staring down the barrel of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The England team - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."

Future Prospects

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this contest, came the reply: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good right now."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Despite the scoreline, the group remains looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that mindset."

"Obviously it is disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have made a substantial financial commitment by now."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year overseas. Additionally, it's our first experience away from home during the festive period."

A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her seasonal break.

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