'Everyone's giving me grief' over the Ashes concluding prior to my arrival.

Spectators on tour

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

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

That will not be happening during this tour, after the hosts' dominant triumph 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 thousands of supporters traveling for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.

There are also tour groups who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as loved ones embarking on a special expedition.

Fans with Booked Tickets

The Ryding siblings are a prime example.

The four siblings had their flights and tickets booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their house in the north of England.

"All my colleagues has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"We always thought that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia before it began.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "some resilience".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the top order."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, Sam said: "It appears the Aussies are just too good right now."

"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that delivers for the team and turns the game."

Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a fantastic experience anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that outlook."

"Naturally, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money already."

"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year overseas. This will be mine and Rory's first time traveling over Christmas."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.

"If all else fails, there's always golf to rely on," Katie concluded.

Sharon Golden
Sharon Golden

Elena is a seasoned engineer with over a decade of experience in smart manufacturing and industrial automation.