'Everyone's giving me grief' about the series finishing before I get there.
Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what else would an England cricket fan ask for?
Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after the hosts' dominant 82-run win in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.
The loyal traveling fans, the organized fan base, have a large group making the journey for the last two matches in the SCG and MCG.
Furthermore, other travel parties who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a special expedition.
The Disappointed Travelers
A group of four supporters are among those affected.
The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a long-awaited triumph.
From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their family home in their hometown.
"All my colleagues has been making comments that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.
"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for still when we got there."
Fading Positivity
Hope was abundant about England's chances of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.
However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.
The tourists - and their fans - will be hoping to sidestep a clean sweep.
One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for followers of the team.
But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are hoping for from the players is "some resilience".
"All analysts alludes to it, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.
"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."
Looking Ahead
Prompted about he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, came the reply: "It appears the Australians are superior currently."
"It will require multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."
Despite the scoreline, the fans are anticipating the trip.
"We will have a wonderful trip anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that mindset."
"Obviously it is disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have made a substantial financial commitment already."
"We'll enjoy spending the festive season in Australia. Additionally, it's our first experience abroad at this time of year."
A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.
"As a backup plan, there's always golf to fall back on," she finished.