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

Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

That will not be happening during this tour, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide left the home side 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans flying out for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.

In addition, there are tour groups who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as loved ones embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are among those affected.

The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials secured for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just under two weeks from their house in their hometown.

"Everyone at work has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for still when we got there."

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.

The England team - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for followers of the team.

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

"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'Bazball' has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.

"In a five-day Test match, you should dig in. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the top order."

The Remaining Matches

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good currently."

"It will require multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are excited about the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip anyway," said Katie. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Obviously it is disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have made a substantial financial commitment by now."

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

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

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to turn to," Katie concluded.