The Barmy Army Fans World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for amateur cricket players. If you have dreamt about visiting the stunning country of Sri Lanka, or of representing your country at a Test match venue, this is one for you!
This unique event is in partnership with our friends at Srilankan Airlines, and we are therefore able to offer this opportunity to participate in a truly special competition with some incredible perks.
You will have the chance to represent your country in a T10 round-robin Fans World Cup competition – with all matches taking place at The Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium.
Our Player Package includes everything you can think of to live the life of a professional for a few days and allows you 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, New Zealand, South Africa, Pakistan, USA and Sri Lanka, in a T10 competition in Dambulla, Sri Lanka.
The objective is simple – to bring cricket lovers from all over the world together to celebrate our shared love of the sport and allow them to experience the thrill of representing their country in a World Cup.
Who’s previously won the Barmy Army Fans World Cup?
In 2021, a team representing 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.
In 2023, Pakistan were worthy champions after comfortably beating England’s Barmy Army in the final. Celebrations on and off the field will live long in the memory, and our partners SriLankan Airlines pulled out all the stops to make this a memorable occasion.
Where is the Barmy Army Fans World Cup 2025?
The 2025 event will take place in the stunning city of Dambulla, Sri Lanka. The cricket will be played at the Test match stadium – The Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket stadium.
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.
What does the Player Packages include?
- The opportunity to play for your country at a Test match venue in the Barmy Army Fans World Cup!
- Return flights from London Heathrow to Colombo
- VIP meet & assist service on arrival to Colombo and a coach transfer from Colombo to Dambulla
- Matchday transfers to and from the hotel to the stadium
- 4 nights accommodation in the 5* Aliya Resort & Spa
- Half-board hospitality in your hotel
- Matchday catering at the stadium included including lunch, refreshments and snacks
- Your full branded playing kit and media shoot
- Access to Barmy Army events during the trip
- ATOL protection
- The opportunity to book optional excursions during your stay.
- Options to extend your stay in Sri Lanka by an additional 2,4 or 6 nights. Please call our team on 01932 770077 (Option 2) to discuss the details of this.
Will my family/friends be able to watch the games?
Yes, if your family or friends want to travel with you then we will be releasing friends and family packages soon. There will also 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 share the same hotel, so it promises a great atmosphere with plenty of laughs!
Is it going to be fans and social, or is it more likely to be competitive?
The player package is aimed at competent amateur cricketers, but there is no specific minimum level or experience requirement.
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 the coveted Barmy Army Fans World Cup trophy and players medals.
Is the trip ATOL protected?
Yes, as with any of our tours, your trip is fully ATOL protected.
Will I have time to explore Sri Lanka?
When you’re not representing your country on the pitch, your trip will afford you some time to explore the surrounding area of Dambulla. The four-night package will be mainly focussed on the cricket event (with some spare time!) whereas the options to extend your trip by an additional 2, 4 or 6 nights to take more time in exploring the country will be available.
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.
I’m up for it! What is the next step?
Click here to secure your place! Or, call our team on 01932 770077 (Option 2) to find out more!
