'Everyone's giving me grief' over the Ashes finishing prior to my arrival.

Spectators in Australia

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an supporter of the English team possibly want?

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn following the initial matches.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on home turf.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have thousands of supporters making the journey for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

There are also tour groups who will be vacationing overseas, as well as relatives and companions heading for a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

The Ryding siblings are four such fans.

The group had their itineraries and entry credentials secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", anticipating a historic English victory.

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

"Everyone at work has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

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

Fading Positivity

Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.

Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for England fans.

However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all is about fortitude. 'Bazball' has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the top order."

The Remaining Matches

Prompted about he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, Sam said: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that stands up for England and produces a match-winning display."

Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"We are going to have a wonderful trip nonetheless," added another sibling. "We must adopt that outlook."

"Obviously it is a let-down we can't contest the series, but we have spent so much money as it is."

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year in Australia. It is also our first experience away from home over Christmas."

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

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to turn to," she added.

Thomas Hendricks
Thomas Hendricks

A wellness coach and writer passionate about integrating mindfulness into daily routines for holistic growth.