'People keep ribbing me' about the Ashes being over ahead of my trip.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an supporter of the English team desire?
Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table 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 their own soil.
England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have a large group traveling for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.
In addition, there are travel parties who will celebrate the holidays overseas, as well as relatives and companions planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
The Ryding Siblings
A group of four supporters are among those affected.
The four siblings had their flights and tickets arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.
Instead, they have watched Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their house in their hometown.
"Everyone at work has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.
"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest still when we got there."
Diminishing Hope
Hope was abundant about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.
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 Melbourne this week.
Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.
Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "renewed interest in" the longest format for England fans.
But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "a bit of fight".
"All analysts alludes to it, but it all is about psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.
"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the frontline batsmen."
The Remaining Matches
When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, Sam said: "It appears the Australians are superior at the moment."
"Necessarily, there must be multiple performers that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."
Regardless of the result, the fans are excited about the trip.
"It will be a fantastic experience nonetheless," added another sibling. "We have to go with that attitude."
"Naturally, it's disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money already."
"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year in Australia. Additionally, it's a new experience for us away from home at this time of year."
A schoolteacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her time off.
"As a backup plan, I can play golf to turn to," she added.