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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an supporter of the English team ask for?

Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.

That will not be happening this time, though, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, 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 overseas, as well as families and friends heading for a dream holiday.

Fans with Booked Tickets

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just under two weeks from their residence in their hometown.

"People in the office has been teasing me about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"We always thought that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

The tourists - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent times had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for English supporters.

However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.

"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never been in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the top order."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior at the moment."

"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 looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "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'll enjoy celebrating the holidays in Australia. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time away from home over Christmas."

A schoolteacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.

"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to rely on," Katie concluded.