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

Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.

That will not be happening this time, though, after the hosts' dominant victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have thousands of supporters flying out for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.

There are also travel parties who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as families and friends heading for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", dreaming of a historic English victory.

Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just a short period from their residence in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are facing the prospect of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 matches when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

Ben Stokes' side - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent times had "renewed interest in" the longest format for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit references this, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'wide of off stump has not been part of the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the top order."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "It appears the Aussies are just too good at the moment."

"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

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

"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Naturally, it's disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year overseas. This will be our first experience away from home at this time of year."

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

"If all else fails, I can play golf to fall back on," she added.