'I'm getting constant stick' regarding the Ashes finishing prior to my arrival.

Cricket fans on tour

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an England cricket fan possibly want?

Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn 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 consecutive series on home turf.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters making the journey for the concluding fixtures in Sydney and Melbourne.

In addition, there are tour groups who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as families and friends heading for a special expedition.

Fans with Booked Tickets

The Ryding siblings are four such fans.

The group had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their residence in the north of England.

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

"The hope was that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."

Fading Positivity

Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

However, the situation is now facing the prospect of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be hoping to sidestep a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

It was mentioned that the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "reinvigorated" the longest format for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"All analysts points it out, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the textbooks, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

Prompted about he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, Sam said: "It appears the Aussies are just too good currently."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Despite the scoreline, the siblings are still excited about the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip anyway," added another sibling. "We have to go with that mindset."

"Obviously it is a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money as it is."

"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays out there. Additionally, it's a new experience for us traveling at this time of year."

An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the lengthy journey as part of her time off.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.

Regina Hale
Regina Hale

Elena is a seasoned gaming journalist with over a decade of experience covering the UK casino industry and slot machine trends.