🔗 Share this article

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an Three Lions follower ask for?

Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have a large group flying out for the concluding fixtures in New South Wales and Victoria.

In addition, there are travel parties who will be vacationing down under, as well as families and friends planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Disappointed Travelers

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.

The group had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a historic English victory.

From afar, they've seen Australia outplay the visitors in just under two weeks from their residence in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"We always thought that we would have a meaningful contest upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high regarding the team's prospects of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The England team - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in the past couple of seasons had "reinvigorated" the longest format for followers of the team.

Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "some resilience".

"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'wide of off stump has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior currently."

"It will require more than one player that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."

Regardless of the result, the fans are anticipating the trip.

"We are going to have a wonderful trip nonetheless," added another sibling. "We have to go with that attitude."

"Of course, it's unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have spent so much money as it is."

"We plan to savor celebrating the holidays in Australia. This will be a new experience for us away from home during the festive period."

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

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