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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an England cricket fan desire?

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

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have 3,000 fans flying out for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.

Furthermore, other travel parties who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as families and friends planning a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

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

Instead, they have watched Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period from their house in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been teasing me about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"The hope was that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

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 Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The England team - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the longest format for followers of the team.

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

"All analysts points it out, but it all is about psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.

"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'wide of off stump has never been in the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in the current series, one fan responded: "It appears the Australians are superior currently."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip anyway," said Katie. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Obviously it is unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year out there. It is also a new experience for us abroad over Christmas."

A schoolteacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her time off.

"If all else fails, I've got golf to turn to," Katie concluded.