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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 remain in contention to secure the famous trophy following the initial matches.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have a large group flying out for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a dream holiday.

Fans with Booked Tickets

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

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

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for by the time we arrived."

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day.

The tourists - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach 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 requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".

"All analysts points it out, but it all is about fortitude. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never been in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the frontline batsmen."

Looking Ahead

Prompted about he believed England will win a match in the current series, one fan responded: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side currently."

"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that stands up for England and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are excited about the trip.

"It will be a fantastic experience regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Of course, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We'll enjoy spending the festive season in Australia. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time away from home over Christmas."

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

"If all else fails, I can play golf to rely on," she finished.