Even Bazball's Implosion, this Loyal Fan Group's Crew of Ashes Veterans Stands Firm.

Take heart, fan. England's squad may be heading into the next Ashes Test already 2-0 down, however not everyone within the England setup is deterred. There is one group tailor-made for this scenario, a dedicated unit who are arguably the quintessential doomsday preppers. Have your dreams been shattered? Are you crushed beneath the pressure of failed hopes? Well then, enlist with the Barmy Army.

Early Arrivals Gather on an Formation Site

Even now, their advance guard are moving in on Adelaide, the city where they were established 30 years ago. England's iconic – and by headcount noisiest – travelling fans will be dreaming of an anniversary win-against-the-odds, like the one they celebrated on that 1994-95 tour. And whatever happens on the pitch, away from the field the parties will be extensive and boisterous.

"England's performance been incredibly disappointing," a veteran states, "however we're the fortunate few, because we're on holiday. It's perhaps harder for the people at home."

Even a dramatic batting collapse doesn't trouble this crew of seasoned campaigners. They've been observing England's innings meltdowns since earlier than the latest star took the field. They've witnessed more spilled chances than star players have international dismissals. Their personal stats as an Ashes supporters' club is: a long history with more defeats than victories. If anyone knows how to survive a clean sweep, it's the founding members.

A Ubiquitous Sight In Coverage

Certainly, if you're watching, the Barmy Army do seem to be all over this series. TV directors at the grounds frequently appear more interested in the Barmies than on their own fans. Sports networks frequently use them as atmosphere-building lead-in to a day's play. Remarkably the cricketers on the field give them a wave, as a supporter portraying a monarch starting a rendition of a well-known tune.

From Fans to Institution

Perhaps that the Barmy Army's combination of longevity and omnipresence has now overshadowed quite how remarkable their rise of travelling fandom has been. Three decades ago a small group travelling fans were brought together in good-natured humour about failure at England's dismal away record. In the present day their reputation is so intertwined with the national team that their vibrant, "unique" crowd is virtually part of the furniture. They've undoubtedly come a far since the initial chants.

One founding member still remembers the excited anticipation of the series start of that pioneering tour. With the Australians on top, he started a six-person conga in the stands, provoking the Australian supporters with a song about convicts. "Home supporters jeered at us, then threw rubbish – the stuff that we sometimes receive today," he remembers. "However when we got back our small band of England followers had all participated."

Earning Respect From Players

Following defeat, England's tour continued to struggle. Anyone backing the team around the country was considered barmy indeed. When it came to the bigger venues their ranks had grown significantly. The squad, however, genuinely enjoyed their noise at the grounds. When England pulled off a notable triumph, a star beckoned a fan leader up to the victory celebration to lead the festivities. This connection persists.

An Evolving Operation

Additionally, the significant volume the Barmy Army can muster are as valuable to the cricket authorities as they are to overseas venues. On this tour alone, their organised trips will bring thousands of fans on tour. Numerous celebrations are scheduled for the 30th anniversary.

This is, in the end, an organisation born of love for the game and entrepreneurial spirit. The logic they date themselves to a particular match is because that was when they started offering branded clothing. The short initial run was so immediately successful – and profitable – that it began a lasting enterprise. Over the years, the original members have helped turn a fan community into an industry-leading sports tourism business.

Modern Evolution

That brings its own issues, particularly at a time when sport is attempting to move beyond some of its lads-lads-lads image. The Barmy Army's leadership are keen to point out that a significant portion of their clientele are now female. As norms evolve, the songs have had to get more family-friendly, too. "Things that were common 30 years ago you can no longer say, and that's absolutely right," says a representative. "We can't tell someone how to behave within the confines of their seat, but we will not promote songs that are derogatory."

{A Quieter Future?

Could the Barmy Army evolve quietly? The demographic is now in the late 40s – mirroring the pioneers, who have been content to distance themselves from the management. One founder is experiencing this tour purely as a fan – leaving a fresh team to run the Barmy Army's digital presence. "You forget how challenging it used to be to communicate with each other," he chuckles. "We used to do it all by shouting – 'everyone's going to the pub!'"

Turning to the current contest, the impossible dream of a historic comeback persists, which is typical of their spirit indeed. And if England are defeated in Adelaide … well, the next tour awaits.