'People keep ribbing me' over the Ashes finishing prior to my arrival.

Cricket fans in Australia

Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an supporter of the English team possibly want?

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.

This is not the case this time, though, after the hosts' dominant 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.

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

Furthermore, other organized trips who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as loved ones heading for a dream holiday.

Fans with Booked Tickets

A group of four supporters are four such fans.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.

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

"Everyone at work has been teasing me regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"We always thought that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."

Fading Positivity

There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.

But they are now looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The tourists - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years 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 hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all is about psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'wide of off stump has never featured in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the top order."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good right now."

"There is going to have to be multiple performers that stands up for England and produces a match-winning display."

Even with the series lost, the siblings are still excited about the trip.

"It will be a wonderful trip anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that mindset."

"Naturally, it's a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money by now."

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year in Australia. This will be mine and Rory's first time away from home at this time of year."

An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her time off.

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

Michelle Bennett
Michelle Bennett

A passionate gamer and tech enthusiast with over a decade of experience in gaming journalism, specializing in indie games and industry trends.