'People keep ribbing me' over the Ashes finishing before I get there.

Cricket fans on tour

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an England cricket fan possibly want?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

This is not the case this time, though, after a comprehensive 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters flying out for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.

In addition, there are organized trips who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as families and friends heading for a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

The Ryding siblings are four such fans.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", anticipating a historic English victory.

Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period from their house in the north of England.

"Everyone at work has been teasing me about it being over for the last two weeks," said Sam.

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

Lowered Expectations

Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia before it began.

But they are now facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.

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

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent times had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for followers of the team.

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

"Commentators consistently references this, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.

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

Future Prospects

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in this contest, Sam said: "It looks like the Australians are superior currently."

"Necessarily, there must be multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."

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

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

"Of course, it's unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays overseas. It is also mine and Rory's first time traveling over Christmas."

A teacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her Christmas holidays.

"If all else fails, I can play golf to turn to," she finished.

Brittany Jenkins
Brittany Jenkins

A professional blackjack strategist with over 15 years of casino experience, specializing in card counting and risk management techniques.