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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an England cricket fan ask for?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.

That will not be happening during this tour, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the last two matches in the SCG and MCG.

In addition, there are travel parties who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as relatives and companions planning a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a historic English victory.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"All my colleagues has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."

Diminishing Hope

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia before it began.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.

The England team - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent times had "reinvigorated" the five-day game for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas 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 this contest, Sam said: "It looks like the Australians are superior currently."

"It will require several individuals that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the siblings are still anticipating the trip.

"We will have a great time anyway," added another sibling. "We have to go with that outlook."

"Obviously it is unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have spent so much money already."

"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year in Australia. This will be a new experience for us abroad during the festive period."

A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her time off.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to rely on," she finished.