'I'm getting constant stick' over the series being over prior to my arrival.

Cricket fans down under

Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an England cricket fan possibly want?

Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy following the initial matches.

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive 82-run win in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have a large group making the journey for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

Furthermore, other tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are four such fans.

The group had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a rare England series success.

Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their family home in their hometown.

"People in the office has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"We always thought that we would have something to play for by the time we arrived."

Fading Positivity

There was plenty of positivity regarding the team's prospects of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under before it began.

Yet now they are staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be hoping to sidestep a whitewash.

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent times had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for English supporters.

But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".

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

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Prompted about he believed England will win a match in the current series, Sam said: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good right now."

"Necessarily, there must be multiple performers that delivers for the team and turns the game."

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

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

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

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year out there. Additionally, it's 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 time off.

"If all else fails, I've got golf to fall back on," she finished.

Alexandra James
Alexandra James

Award-winning investigative journalist with over 15 years of experience covering political and social issues across Europe.