'Everyone's giving me grief' regarding the Ashes finishing before I get there.
Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an supporter of the English team possibly want?
Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on home turf.
The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have thousands of supporters making the journey for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.
Furthermore, other travel parties who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a special expedition.
The Disappointed Travelers
The Ryding siblings are among those affected.
The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.
From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their residence in the north of England.
"Everyone at work has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.
"The hope was that we would have a meaningful contest by the time we arrived."
Diminishing Hope
There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.
But they are now facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.
Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.
Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent times had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for English supporters.
However, the group said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Every pundit points it out, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.
"During a long match, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the frontline batsmen."
The Remaining Matches
Asked whether he believed England will win a match in the current series, came the reply: "It appears the Australians are superior currently."
"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that stands up for England and makes a big impact."
Regardless of the result, the fans are anticipating the trip.
"It will be a wonderful trip anyway," added another sibling. "Our approach is that outlook."
"Naturally, it's a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money already."
"We plan to savor spending the festive season overseas. This will be our first experience abroad during the festive period."
A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her Christmas holidays.
"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to rely on," she finished.