Barmy Army CC – Our Cricket Matches Down Under

Our Barmy Army CC roots in Australia date back to December 1998, when travelling Barmy Army members were challenged to a friendly match by Middle Park CC while staying at a local backpackers’ in Melbourne. This spontaneous game marked the beginning of a proud cricketing tradition for the Barmy Army.

It laid the foundation for “The Bashes”- our beloved series played both at home and away between the Barmy Army and our great Aussie mates, the Fanatics. This rivalry has been a highlight of every Ashes tour since the 2006–07 series.

We are excited to continue the cricketing tradition for the 2025/26 Ashes series. However, with the Fanatics now disbanded, we will take on five local Australian teams across each leg of the tour.

These Bashes fixtures will be played at some of the country’s best club grounds – including, for the first time in Australia, an ex-Test match venue – ensuring another unforgettable chapter in Barmy Army CC history.

Over the years, our matches have drawn some famous faces to the boundary rope, with Alec Stewart and Michael Vaughan among those who’ve stopped by to lend their support, alongside a surprising number of national and international media from both nations.

It promises to be an unforgettable part of the tour, and we look forward to seeing you there.

Fixture Schedule for The Bashes

Save the date to schedule the Bashes series around your Ashes travel plans. Further details will be confirmed shortly.

How Can I Get Involved?

Barmy Army Members will be invited to enter The Bashes Ballot for a chance to be part of the Barmy Army CC squad for each fixture across the series. Successful participants will be contacted one month prior to the match to finalise the playing squad for each fixture.

If you are not selected in the ballot or are not interested in playing cricket, you are still welcome to join us! It’s a fantastic day and a great opportunity to connect with the Barmy Army cricket community at some of Australia’s finest cricket grounds while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the Ashes.

Register your interest below to stay updated with all the latest news about The Bashes series!