🔗 Share this article

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an England cricket fan possibly want?

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

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant 82-run win in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.

England's famous supporters' group, the organized fan base, have a large group making the journey for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as loved ones embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Fans with Booked Tickets

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their family home in the north of England.

"All my colleagues has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"Our expectation had been 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 victory down under ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are facing the prospect 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 tourists - and their fans - will be hoping to sidestep a whitewash.

Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for England fans.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "some resilience".

"All analysts points it out, but it all is about fortitude. 'Bazball' has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never been in the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, Sam said: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side currently."

"It will require more than one player that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."

Regardless of the result, the group remains anticipating the trip.

"We are going to have a great time regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Naturally, it's a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have made a substantial financial commitment by now."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year in Australia. Additionally, it's a new experience for us abroad over Christmas."

A teacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.

"As a backup plan, I can play golf to fall back on," she added.