Despite Bazball's Collapse, this Barmy Army's Band of Ashes Veterans Remains Unshaken.

Steady, trooper. Ben Stokes's side could be heading into the next Ashes Test already 2-0 down, however not everyone within the England setup is disheartened. Exists one group ideally equipped for these circumstances, a unwavering unit who can lay claim to be the ultimate masters of adversity. Have your dreams been shattered? Do you feel the weight beneath the weight of failed hopes? In that case, join the Barmy Army.

Early Arrivals Converge on an Anniversary City

As we speak, their early arrivals are gathering in Adelaide, the city where they were established 30 years ago. England's most famous – and by headcount most vocal – tourist followers will be hoping for an triumphant anniversary upset, similar to the one they witnessed on that mid-90s tour. And whatever happens on the pitch, away from the field the parties will be protracted and hearty.

"The on-field action been extremely disappointing," a veteran states, "yet 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 band of hardened veterans. They've been watching England's batting collapse since before a new generation started playing. They've witnessed more fielding errors than some bowlers have Test wickets. Their collective record as an Ashes away contingent is: a long history with more defeats than victories. The people who comprehend how to weather a clean sweep, that would be the founding members.

A Highly Visible Presence In Coverage

Certainly, if you're watching, the Barmy Army are seen to be everywhere during this Ashes. Australian cameras at the grounds frequently appear more focused on the Barmies than in their own fans. Broadcasters regularly use them as banter-primed buildup to a day's play. Even the players on the field give them a wave, with a supporter portraying a royal figure leading a chorus of a patriotic song.

From Backpackers to Pillar

One could argue that the Barmy Army's combination of longevity and omnipresence has now overshadowed quite how stunning their dominance of away support has been. In the early 1990s a small group travelling fans were brought together in comical mockery of their team at England's woeful away record. In the present day their story is so linked with the men's Test side that their vibrant, "maverick" crowd is virtually part of the furniture. They've definitely come a far since the initial chants.

One founding member still remembers the excited anticipation of the first Test of that formative tour. With the hosts making a strong start, he led a small conga in the stands, winding up the home fans with a chant about historical figures. "Home supporters hurled abuse at us, then threw plastic cups – the stuff that we occasionally encounter today," he says. "But when we got back our small band of England followers had all joined in."

Earning Appreciation In the Dressing Room

Following defeat, England's tour faced further difficulties. Anyone backing the team around the country must have been slightly mad. By the time the bigger venues their numbers had swelled significantly. The squad, however, came to value their noise at the grounds. When England secured a consolation win, a senior player beckoned a fan leader up to the victory celebration to join in the celebrations. This connection persists.

An Maturing Business

But then, the large crowds the Barmy Army can muster are as appealing to the English game as they are to host grounds. For this series alone, their travel packages will host a large number of supporters. Numerous celebrations are planned for the 30th anniversary.

This is, ultimately, an group born of cricketing passion and commercial nous. The reason they mark their founding to a specific Test is because that was when they started selling merchandise. The first small batch was so instantly popular – and profitable – that it launched a commercial operation. Over the years, the original members have helped turn a pub-based supporters into an industry-leading travel company.

Modern Considerations

That brings its own challenges, particularly at a time when sport is looking to shed some of its boisterous image. The Barmy Army's directors are quick to note that a significant portion of their clientele are now women. As norms evolve, the songs have had to get cleaner, too. "Comments that were acceptable 30 years ago you must avoid now, and that's correct," says a director. "It's not possible to tell someone how to behave within the confines of their seat, but we will not promote songs that are derogatory."

{A Quieter Future?

Will the Barmy Army evolve quietly? The mean age of fans is now in middle age – mirroring the pioneers, who have been happy to step away from the management. One founder is enjoying this tour purely as a supporter – leaving a fresh team to manage the Barmy Army's online channels. "We forget how challenging it used to be to communicate with each other," he chuckles. "It was all done all by word of mouth – 'everyone's going to the pub!'"

Turning to this Ashes series, the unlikely scenario of a 3-2 turnaround remains alive, which is classic Barmy Army indeed. And if England do lose in Adelaide … well, the next tour awaits.