'Everyone's giving me grief' about the Ashes being over before I get there.

Spectators down under

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an Three Lions follower possibly want?

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

That will not be happening this time, though, after a comprehensive 82-run win in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have a large group making the journey for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as loved ones embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Fans with Booked Tickets

The Ryding siblings are a prime example.

The group had their itineraries and entry credentials secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", dreaming of a rare England series success.

Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just 11 days from their house in the north of England.

"Everyone at work has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"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.

But they are now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in the MCG on Christmas Day.

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

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the longest format for English supporters.

Yet the fans said they had low expectations for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," commented another sibling.

"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

Looking Ahead

Prompted about he believed England will win a match in the current series, one fan responded: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."

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

Even with the series lost, the group remains excited about the trip.

"We will have a great time anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that mindset."

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

"We will make the most of spending the festive season in Australia. This will be mine and Rory's first time away from home at this time of year."

An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break.

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

Jesse Wagner
Jesse Wagner

Eleanor Whitmore is a lifestyle journalist and luxury brand consultant based in London.