The Barmy Army Fans World Cup Guide

The Barmy Army Fans World Cup is a once in a lifetime opportunity for cricket fans. If you have dreamt about visiting the stunning country of Sri Lanka, or have been wanting to play at the iconic Galle Fort for as long as you can remember, this really is one for you!

This unique event is in partnership with our friends at Sri Lankan Airlines, and we are therefore able to offer this opportunity at less than the cost price of the flights alone! For just £999, you can be part of a truly special competition with some incredible perks.

This November, you will have the chance to represent your country in a T10 round robin competition, which will take place across two days. Our Player Package contains everything you will need for your trip and you can choose to extend your stay if you want a few more nights to enjoy the beautiful country of Sri Lanka.

So, what exactly is The Barmy Army Fans World Cup? Let’s take a closer look…

What is the Barmy Army Fans World Cup?

The Barmy Army Fans World Cup is a round robin tournament for amateur cricketers, where players can represent England, Australia, India, South Africa or Sri Lanka in a T10 competition to be in Galle, Sri Lanka.

The objective is simple – to bring cricket lovers together and provide them with an opportunity to play and celebrate the game we all love.

Who won the last Barmy Army Fans World Cup?

In 2021, Barbados won the first ever Barmy Army Fans World Cup which was played in Oxford, England. Barbados beat the England’s Barmy Army team in the final and celebrated long into the night with their stand-in ‘coach’ Joel Garner.

Where is the Barmy Army Fans World Cup 2023?

Galle, Sri Lanka. The cricket will be played at the iconic Galle Fort stadium where Sri Lanka host international cricket.

When is the Barmy Army Fans World Cup 2023?

You will be flying out on November 18th and returning on either November 22nd or 25th – depending on your preference!

What is the format?

T10 cricket is the sport’s shortest and fastest format. Two teams play a single innings, which is restricted to a maximum of ten overs per side, with the game lasting approximately 90 minutes.

How many teams are competing?

Five teams will be taking part in the tournament (England, Australia, India, South Africa and Sri Lanka).
We’ll be in touch post-booking to find out who you would like to represent. We will make our best endeavours to ensure you have the opportunity to play for your selected nation, however, this may require flexibility from players.

How many matches are played?

Each team will play up to six matches in total across the two days. This will depend on results and how far your team progresses but you are guaranteed at least four matches.

How much does it cost to take part?

We have two different packages available:

Player Package 1 (5 nights) = £999

Player Package 2 (8 nights) = £1359

What do the Player Packages include?

Return flights from London Heathrow
Four or seven-night stay at the 4* Radisson Blu, Galle (half board)
All airport, hotel, and cricket transfers
Two days of cricket representing your country in the Barmy Army Fans World Cup
Your playing kit
Matchday catering
Big end of tour party where the winning team will be crowned as the Barmy Army Fans World Champions before a night of partying in the vibrant city of Galle

Will my family/friends be able to watch the games?

There will be full coverage of the tournament on our YouTube and social media channels.

Will all the players be staying in the same hotel?

All teams will be sharing the same hotel, so it promises to be a great atmosphere with plenty of laughs!

Is it going to be fans and social or is it more likely to be competitive?

The players package is aimed at competent amateur cricketers but there is no specific requirement in terms of a minimum level or experience.

What is the demographic of people likely to play?

The tournament is for cricketers, male or female, who are aged 18 years or older. We want the cricket to be fun but competitive so ask that all players are competent and confident cricketers. There is no age cap!

What do you get if you win?

Pride. Honour. Glory. The experience of a lifetime. Amazing memories. The winners party. And probably a medal!

Is the trip ATOL protected?

Yes, as with any of our tours, your trip is fully ATOL protected.

Will I have time to explore Galle?

When you’re not representing your country on the pitch, your trip will afford you some time to explore Galle and the surrounding area. The four-night package will be mainly focussed on the cricket event (with some spare time!) whereas the 7-night package will allow more time for optional excursions which we will organise on your behalf.

What is Galle like?

Galle is situated on the southwestern tip and is the provincial capital and largest city in Sri Lanka. It has a population of 101,749 and features a tropical rainforest climate. The city has no true dry season, with temperatures showing little variation throughout the course of the year, with average temperatures around 26°C throughout.

Of course, Galle is also home to the Galle International Stadium, which is considered to be one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world!

If I wanted, could I take the trip but upgrade the flight to business or premium economy at my own cost?

Yes, we will try and organise this for you through our partners at Sri Lankan Airlines.

If I want to bring my partner, is that option available at the cost on offer?

We will be launching a ‘supporters package’ at a later date once all of the players’ packages have been filled. For complete transparency, these packages will cost more as the players’ packages are sponsored by Sri Lankan Airlines, whereas the supporters will have to pay a more realistic price!