Why Is Everyone Upset About the Ashes Ending Before My Arrival?

As England cricket fans prepare for the final two Tests of the Ashes series in Australia, hopes for a turnaround are dimming following a decisive 82-run loss in Adelaide, leaving the team trailing 3-0. With the fourth Test set to begin on 25 December, supporters like the Ryding siblings share a mix of disappointment and determination to enjoy their trip despite England's struggles. The series has been marked by Australia's dominance, extending England's winless streak on Australian soil, and fans are left hoping for a spark of resilience from the players.

Last updated: 15 December 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the Ashes series reaches its climax, England's cricket team faces an uphill battle after Australia secured a commanding 3-0 lead. The recent defeat in Adelaide highlighted the stark difference in performance levels, with England struggling to find form. The upcoming fourth Test in Melbourne is crucial, not only for the team's pride but also for their supporters, many of whom have travelled thousands of miles hoping to witness a competitive contest. With 3,000 fans from the Barmy Army travelling down under, expectations are tempered, but the spirit of support remains high.

Key takeaways

• England trails 3-0 in the Ashes series after a heavy defeat in Adelaide.
• The fourth Test is scheduled for 25 December in Melbourne.
• Supporters, including the Ryding siblings, remain optimistic despite the team's struggles.

Timeline: how we got here

The Ashes series has unfolded as follows:

• 8 December 2023: First Test begins in Brisbane, Australia wins.
• 15 December 2023: Second Test in Adelaide concludes, Australia wins again.
• 22 December 2023: Third Test in Melbourne starts, England's hopes are dashed further.
• 25 December 2023: Fourth Test commences with England seeking to avoid a whitewash.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent matches have showcased Australia’s dominance, with Ben Stokes’ side failing to adapt to the conditions. The players’ mental resilience is now under scrutiny, with fans and pundits alike questioning their approach and strategy.

What was already established

Prior to the series, there were high hopes for England to challenge for the Ashes, with a focus on the aggressive 'Bazball' approach. However, the reality has been a series of disappointing performances and tactical errors, leading to widespread critique.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For many UK fans, the Ashes series represents not just a sporting event but a festive holiday. The financial investment in travel, accommodation, and match tickets has been significant, especially given the current economic climate. Fans are seeking value in their experience, even if the cricket has not lived up to expectations.

Businesses and jobs

The influx of UK fans into Australia has positive implications for local tourism and hospitality sectors, as many supporters are spending on accommodation, dining, and tourism activities during their stay. However, disappointment in the cricket may affect attendance at later matches.

Policy and regulation

With the ongoing Ashes series, there may be implications for sporting events and international travel regulations, especially concerning fan safety and event management. The current situation highlights the importance of effective communication between governing bodies and fans in planning for large-scale events.

Numbers that matter

• 3-0: Australia leads the Ashes series.
• 11 days: Time taken for Australia to secure victories in the first three Tests.
• 3,000: Barmy Army fans travelling to Australia for the final two Tests.
• 15 years: Duration of England's wait for a series win in Australia.
• 21,000: Total round-trip miles for fans travelling from the UK to Australia.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Ashes: A Test cricket series played between England and Australia.
• Bazball: A term used to describe England's aggressive style of Test cricket under head coach Brendon McCullum.
• Barmy Army: The official England cricket supporters' group known for their vocal support.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

The immediate focus for England will be on the fourth Test. The team needs to regroup, reassess their strategies, and focus on mental resilience to avoid a clean sweep.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Post-Ashes, the team will need to evaluate player performance and consider potential changes to the squad for future series, focusing on rebuilding and developing younger talent.

Signals to watch

• Player performance metrics in the upcoming Test matches.
• Fan engagement and attendance at remaining games.
• Coaching decisions made after the series concludes.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay engaged with cricket updates and team news.
• Consider the cultural experiences available while in Australia.

Don’t

• Lose hope; the spirit of support is crucial for the players.
• Underestimate the importance of mental resilience in sports.

Checklist

• Ensure travel plans are finalised and confirmed.
• Stay updated on match timings and locations.
• Engage with fellow fans for a shared experience.
• Make plans for sightseeing and enjoying the local culture.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the current series has laid bare the challenges faced by England, it is essential to acknowledge that cricket is inherently unpredictable. Injuries, weather conditions, and psychological factors can all influence outcomes in the sport. The reliance on the 'Bazball' approach has been questioned, and it remains to be seen how the team will adapt moving forward.

Bottom line

The Ashes series has proven to be a difficult campaign for England, but the final two Tests present an opportunity for redemption. Fans, like the Ryding siblings, are determined to enjoy their experience in Australia regardless of the outcomes on the pitch, showcasing the enduring spirit of cricket support in the UK.

FAQs

What is the current score in the Ashes series?

Currently, Australia leads the Ashes series 3-0 after winning the first three Tests decisively.

When is the fourth Test scheduled?

The fourth Test is set to begin on 25 December 2023 in Melbourne.

What does 'Bazball' mean in cricket?

'Bazball' refers to an aggressive style of Test cricket adopted by England under coach Brendon McCullum, aimed at revitalising the game for English fans.