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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an Three Lions follower possibly want?

Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters making the journey for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

There are also travel parties who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period from their residence in the north of England.

"People in the office has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

There was plenty of positivity regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.

However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.

The tourists - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "reinvigorated" the longest format for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the top order."

Looking Ahead

Prompted about he believed England will win a match in this contest, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side currently."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Regardless of the result, the siblings are still anticipating the trip.

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

"Obviously it is disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount already."

"We plan to savor spending the festive season in Australia. Additionally, it's our first experience traveling over Christmas."

A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.

"As a backup plan, I've got golf to rely on," she added.