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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an supporter of the English team desire?

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

That will not be happening this time, though, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

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

There are also tour groups who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as loved ones planning a special expedition.

Fans with Booked Tickets

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are four such fans.

The group had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", anticipating a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"People in the office has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

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

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity regarding the team's prospects of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia before it began.

However, the situation is now facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.

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

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for English supporters.

Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "some resilience".

"All analysts alludes to it, but it all is about psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.

"In a five-day Test match, you should dig in. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never been in the textbooks, and that is largely because of the top order."

Future Prospects

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, Sam said: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side currently."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the siblings are still excited about the trip.

"We are going to have a fantastic experience anyway," added another sibling. "We have to go with that outlook."

"Obviously it is unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have spent so much money by now."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays out there. This will be our first experience abroad over Christmas."

A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.

"If all else fails, I've got golf to rely on," she finished.