'People keep ribbing me' regarding the series finishing before I get there.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an supporter of the English team ask for?
Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy following the initial matches.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on home turf.
England's famous supporters' group, England's supporters' group, have thousands of supporters flying out for the last two matches in the SCG and MCG.
Furthermore, other travel parties who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a special expedition.
The Disappointed Travelers
The Ryding siblings are among those affected.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a historic English victory.
Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their house in the north of England.
"All my colleagues has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for by the time we arrived."
Diminishing Hope
There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.
However, the situation is now facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.
Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent times had "reinvigorated" the five-day game for English supporters.
However, the group said they had low expectations for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.
"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."
The Remaining Matches
When questioned if he believed England will win a match in this contest, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good currently."
"There is going to have to be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."
Despite the scoreline, the group remains excited about the trip.
"We will have a wonderful trip nonetheless," said Katie. "Our approach is that mindset."
"Of course, it's disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount already."
"We plan to savor spending the festive season in Australia. This will be mine and Rory's first time away from home over Christmas."
An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her Christmas holidays.
"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to rely on," Katie concluded.