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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an England cricket fan possibly want?

Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy following the initial matches.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans traveling for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

There are also travel parties who will celebrate the holidays overseas, as well as relatives and companions planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

The four siblings had their flights and tickets secured for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", hoping to witness a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their residence in the north of England.

"Everyone at work has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"We always thought that we would have a meaningful contest still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under before it began.

But they are now facing the prospect of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

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

It was mentioned that the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for England fans.

But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Wafting outside 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good at the moment."

"There is going to have to be multiple performers that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are excited about the trip.

"We will have a fantastic experience nonetheless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Of course, it's unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have made a substantial financial commitment already."

"We will make the most of spending the festive season overseas. This will be mine and Rory's first time away from home over Christmas."

A teacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.

"As a backup plan, I can play golf to rely on," she finished.