'I'm getting constant stick' about the series concluding ahead of my trip.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an Three Lions follower possibly want?
Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.
This is not the case this time, though, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.
The loyal traveling fans, the organized fan base, have thousands of supporters traveling for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.
There are also tour groups who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Fans with Booked Tickets
A group of four supporters are a prime example.
The group had their flights and tickets secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", hoping to witness a historic English victory.
Instead, they have watched Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their family home in the north of England.
"All my colleagues has been teasing me about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.
"The hope was that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."
Diminishing Hope
Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.
However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The tourists - and their fans - will be hoping to sidestep a clean sweep.
Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "renewed interest in" the longest format for England fans.
But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".
"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.
"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'outside the line has not been part of the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."
Looking Ahead
When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good right now."
"There is going to have to be more than one player that stands up for England and turns the game."
Despite the scoreline, the fans are excited about the trip.
"We will have a fantastic experience nonetheless," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that attitude."
"Of course, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount by now."
"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays in Australia. Additionally, it's our first experience traveling during the festive period."
An educator, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her time off.
"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to fall back on," she finished.
