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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an supporter of the English team possibly want?

Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn following the initial matches.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have a large group flying out for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

Furthermore, other tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as loved ones heading for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

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

"Everyone at work has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"The hope was that we would have the series on the line by the time we arrived."

Fading Positivity

There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory 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 matches when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.

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

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "renewed interest in" the longest format for England fans.

Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," commented another sibling.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never been in the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Prompted about he believed England will triumph in a Test in the current series, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior right now."

"It will require several individuals that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are anticipating the trip.

"We are going to have a fantastic experience anyway," added another sibling. "We must adopt that mindset."

"Naturally, it's disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have made a substantial financial commitment as it is."

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year in Australia. It is also a new experience for us abroad at this time of year."

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

"As a backup plan, there's always golf to fall back on," she finished.