The culture of fandom has expanded since the turn of the century.
There are some ardent group of fans, who follow their countries, no matter where they go. The same could be said about the franchise sport, as in the Domestic T20 Leagues. England's Barmy Army, alongside India's Bharat Army, are two of the most prominent fan groups in cricket.
The Sporting News tells you everything you need to know about the England Cricket's super fans:
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Who are the Barmy Army?
The Barmy Army is the name of the official fan club of the England Cricket Team. The group is known for endless chanting, singing, and dancing, no matter if the team is winning or losing.
Barmy Army is the bunch of cricket fans that travel overseas with the England cricket team, and act as the metaphorical 12th man. The Barmy Army started as a bunch of backpackers, but are now a corporate company, along with a travel firm.
Through their travel firm, the Barmy Army has aimed to help spread support for England Cricket. They help people organise their trips and travel along, to countries where the England cricket team would be on tour.
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When was the Barmy Army founded?
Barmy Army was founded by Paul Burnham, David Peacock, and Gareth Evans during England's away tour to Australia in the 1994/95 season. The group started with a meagre count of 30. However, with time, the Barmy Army has expanded massively, and is now present at multiple locations around the globe.
The word 'Barmy' was given to the fans in 1994/95 by the Aussie local media. Barmy means foolish or crazy, in British slang.
It is reported to have all started at a T-shirt store in Australia. A bunch of fans printed t-shirts in support of the England Team, back then. The t-shirts had "Atherton's Barmy Army" prints on them. For reference, Michael Atherton was the captain of England Cricket Team in the 1994/95 series.
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