Even England's Aggressive Cricket's Downfall, the Barmy Army's Crew of Seasoned Tourists Stands Firm.

Steady, trooper. England's side could be heading into the upcoming Ashes Test already 2-0 down, but some remain within the England setup is deterred. Exists one group tailor-made for such a situation, a crack(pot) unit who can lay claim to be the ultimate doomsday preppers. Have your dreams been shattered? Is the disappointment beneath the weight of failed hopes? Then it's time, join the Barmy Army.

Pioneers Move In on an Historic Location

As we speak, their early arrivals are gathering in Adelaide, the city where they were established 30 years ago. England's iconic – and per capita most vocal – tourist followers will be dreaming of an anniversary win-against-the-odds, like the one they celebrated on that mid-90s tour. And regardless of the result on the pitch, away from the field the parties will be long and loud.

"England's performance been very, very disappointing," a veteran states, "but we're the blessed group, because we're on holiday. It's probably harder for the people at home."

Even a dramatic batting collapse doesn't trouble this group of seasoned campaigners. They've been observing England's innings meltdowns since prior to a new generation started playing. They've observed more dropped catches than some bowlers have Test wickets. Their personal stats as an Ashes supporters' club reads: a long history with more defeats than victories. If anyone understand how to endure a whitewash, that would be the long-standing fans.

A Ever-Present Sight At the Ground

Without a doubt, on television, the Barmy Army appear to be everywhere in this contest. TV directors at the grounds frequently appear keener to feature the Barmies than in their own fans. Broadcasters regularly use them as atmosphere-building buildup to a day's play. Remarkably the players on the field give them a wave, with someone clad as a monarch starting a rendition of a national hymn.

From Backpackers to Establishment

One could argue that the Barmy Army's combination of endurance and omnipresence has now masked quite how stunning their takeover of tourist following has been. In the early 1990s a handful backpackers were united in wry self-deprecation at England's poor away record. In the present day their reputation is so synonymous with the national team that their vibrant, "unique" crowd is virtually an accepted institution. They've undoubtedly come a long way since the humble beginnings.

One veteran recalls the excited anticipation of the series start of that formative tour. With the hosts building a solid score, he started a modest conga in the stands, provoking the Australian supporters with a song about historical figures. "Home supporters hurled abuse at us, then threw plastic cups – the kind of thing that we sometimes receive today," he remembers. "But when we got back our modest following of England followers had all taken part."

Earning Acclaim From Players

After defeat, England's tour continued to struggle. Any supporter backing the team around the country must have been barmy indeed. By the time the bigger venues their numbers had swelled substantially. The players, however, truly appreciated their presence at the grounds. When England pulled off a notable triumph, a senior player summoned a fan leader up to the victory celebration to direct the festivities. This connection remains.

An Maturing Institution

Furthermore, the large crowds the Barmy Army can conjure are as attractive to the English game as they are to international stadiums. On this tour alone, their official tours will host a significant contingent of fans on tour. A variety of activities are planned for the significant birthday.

This is, after all, an organisation born of cricketing passion and entrepreneurial spirit. The reason they mark their founding to a particular match is because that was when they started offering souvenir shirts. The limited early stock was so quickly sold out – and financially rewarding – that it sparked a commercial operation. Over the years, the co-founders have helped turn a fan community into an respected travel company.

Modern Evolution

That brings its own complexities, notably at a time when sport is attempting to move beyond some of its lads-lads-lads image. The Barmy Army's directors are quick to note that a growing percentage of their travelling fans are now women. As times have changed, the chants have had to get cleaner, too. "Language that you'd say 30 years ago you must avoid now, and that's as it should be," says a spokesperson. "It's not possible to tell someone how to behave in their own space, but we won't support songs that are derogatory."

{A Changing Demographics?

Might the Barmy Army become more sedate? The average supporter age is now in middle age – mirroring the original members, who have been content to withdraw from the daily operation. One founder is experiencing this tour purely as a punter – leaving a fresh team to populate the Barmy Army's digital presence. "We forget how hard it used to be to organise with each other," he laughs. "It was all done all by meeting up – 'everyone's going to the pub!'"

Regarding the current contest, the impossible dream of a 3-2 turnaround still lingers, which is classic Barmy Army indeed. And if England do lose in Adelaide … well, future travels awaits.