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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an England cricket fan possibly want?

Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have 3,000 fans traveling for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

There are also travel parties who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as families and friends planning a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are among those affected.

The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a rare England series success.

Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just a short period from their house in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"The hope was that we would have something to play for still when we got there."

Lowered Expectations

There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

But they are now facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day.

The tourists - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'wide of off stump has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, Sam said: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side currently."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."

Regardless of the result, the group remains looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a great time anyway," said Katie. "We have to go with that attitude."

"Naturally, it's a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount already."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year overseas. This will be our first experience abroad during the festive period."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.

"As a backup plan, there's always golf to rely on," Katie concluded.