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'I'm getting constant stick' about the series finishing ahead of my trip.

Cricket fans down under

Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an Three Lions follower ask for?

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

That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have 3,000 fans flying out for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

In addition, there are travel parties who will celebrate the holidays overseas, as well as families and friends embarking on a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The group had their flights and tickets secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", anticipating a historic English victory.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just under two weeks from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

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

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.

But they are now looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The tourists - and their fans - will be hoping to sidestep a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "reinvigorated" the longest format for followers of the team.

But the Ryding siblings 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".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.

"In a five-day Test match, you should dig in. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will win a match in the current series, one fan responded: "It looks like the Australians are superior currently."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that stands up for England and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the group remains excited about the trip.

"We are going to have a great time nonetheless," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that outlook."

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

"We plan to savor celebrating the holidays out there. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time away from home over Christmas."

An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to fall back on," she finished.

JD
By

Jason Davis

Elena Hartwell is a London-based journalist specializing in political analysis and cultural commentary with over a decade of experience.

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