'I'm getting constant stick' over the series concluding prior to my arrival.
Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an supporter of the English team possibly want?
Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.
England's famous supporters' group, England's supporters' group, have a large group traveling for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.
In addition, there are tour groups who will be vacationing down under, as well as families and friends embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
The Ryding Siblings
The Ryding siblings are among those affected.
The group had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.
From afar, they've seen Australia outplay the visitors in just under two weeks from their house in their hometown.
"People in the office has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.
"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line by the time we arrived."
Fading Positivity
There was plenty of positivity regarding the team's prospects of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.
But they are now staring down the barrel of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.
Ben Stokes' side - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.
It was mentioned that the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent times had "renewed interest in" the longest format for followers of the team.
However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".
"Every pundit references this, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, impractical batting," commented another sibling.
"During a long match, you should dig in. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the textbooks, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."
The Remaining Matches
When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good at the moment."
"It will require more than one player that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."
Regardless of the result, the siblings are still excited about the trip.
"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," added another sibling. "Our approach is that outlook."
"Of course, it's disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have made a substantial financial commitment by now."
"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays in Australia. It is also a new experience for us abroad over Christmas."
A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.
"If all else fails, I can play golf to rely on," she added.