'People keep ribbing me' regarding the Ashes finishing ahead of my trip.

Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an Three Lions follower possibly want?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes once the opening games are done.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.

England's famous supporters' group, the organized fan base, have a large group making the journey for the concluding fixtures in Sydney and Melbourne.

Furthermore, other tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as loved ones planning a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

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

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their residence in the north of England.

"All my colleagues has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

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

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.

However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

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

One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit references this, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"During a long 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 Ashes series, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."

Even with the series lost, the group remains looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a great time regardless," added another sibling. "We have to go with that mindset."

"Obviously it is disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have spent so much money by now."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year overseas. It is also our first experience abroad over Christmas."

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

"As a backup plan, there's always golf to turn to," she added.