🔗 Share this article

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 Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.

This is not the case during this tour, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on home turf.

The Barmy Army, England's supporters' group, have a large group traveling for the last two matches in the SCG and MCG.

There are also tour groups who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as loved ones heading for a dream holiday.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their residence in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"People in the office has been teasing me regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line by the time we arrived."

Fading Positivity

Optimism was high regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

Ben Stokes' side - and their supporters - will be hoping to sidestep a whitewash.

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "reinvigorated" Test cricket for followers of the team.

Yet the fans said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," commented another sibling.

"In a five-day Test match, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, Sam said: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side currently."

"There is going to have to be more than one player that stands up for England and turns the game."

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

"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," added another sibling. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Obviously it is disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have made a substantial financial commitment already."

"We'll enjoy spending the festive season overseas. This will be a new experience for us abroad over Christmas."

A teacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to turn to," she added.