'People keep ribbing me' about the Ashes being over before I get there.

Cricket fans in Australia

Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an Three Lions follower ask for?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after a comprehensive 82-run win in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

England's famous supporters' group, England's supporters' group, have a large group making the journey for the concluding fixtures in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as relatives and companions planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", dreaming of a historic English victory.

Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their family home in the north of England.

"People in the office has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

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

Diminishing Hope

Hope was abundant about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.

However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The England team - and their supporters - will be hoping to sidestep a whitewash.

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for followers of the team.

But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."

Future Prospects

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in this contest, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior right now."

"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that stands up for England and makes a big impact."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are anticipating the trip.

"We are going to have a wonderful trip anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that outlook."

"Naturally, it's unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year overseas. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time traveling at this time of year."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to turn to," Katie concluded.

Megan Poole
Megan Poole

Elara is a poet and educator with a passion for modern verse and literary analysis, sharing her journey to inspire others.