The Barmy Army Of England’s Cricket Fans
What could be more quintessentially English than the idea of Sunday cricket on the local village green followed by tea and cakes? It is an ideal that many live, and the national team is merely an extension of this.
Cricket is one of England’s many national sports. Although there are rivalries, particularly with Australia, it is nonetheless considered a gentleman’s sport. The national game is a long and gentle one, often taking a few days to complete. This creates a patience in English cricket fans and a healthy tolerance to sitting outside for days. The game is too long to wear yourself out by cheering constantly, so you have to pace yourself.
More importantly, it doesn’t matter if they win or lose; it’s the taking part that counts. At least, that’s the excuse English fans use until their team finally beats someone. And here we have the mindset of the Barmy Army. It’s a good-natured and supportive group of fans who love cricket.
The Barmy Army is a very British institution: loyal, self-deprecating and well-traveled. Ready to fly the Union Jack at any cricket tour or event, they can be counted to provide a polite ripple of applause whenever someone scores a six or a four.
Still bored? Click to continue: Swami Army ready to fire
December 28 2011 12:00 am | Uncategorized