'I'm getting constant stick' regarding the series concluding prior to my arrival.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an supporter of the English team possibly want?
Ideally, they'd want an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.
This is not the case on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.
The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have a large group traveling for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.
There are also organized trips who will be vacationing overseas, as well as families and friends embarking on a special expedition.
Fans with Booked Tickets
A group of four supporters are a prime example.
The group had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a rare England series success.
Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period from their house in the north of England.
"Everyone at work has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.
"The hope was that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."
Fading Positivity
There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.
However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.
The tourists - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.
Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "reinvigorated" the longest format for followers of the team.
However, the group said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"All analysts alludes to it, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.
"During a long match, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the top order."
Looking Ahead
Prompted about he believed England will win a match in this contest, came the reply: "It looks like the Australians are superior currently."
"Necessarily, there must be multiple performers that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."
Despite the scoreline, the siblings are still anticipating the trip.
"We are going to have a fantastic experience anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that attitude."
"Of course, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have made a substantial financial commitment as it is."
"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays in Australia. Additionally, it's a new experience for us abroad at this time of year."
A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her time off.
"As a backup plan, I can play golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.