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the barmy army view

Our Man In The Stands, Paul Burnham

Paul, you've been in the ground for the last five days, how does this compare with other famous Test victories

Well it's right up there. Obviously there have been some great moments following England over the years, especially overseas, but this one coming against the side ranked no 1 in the world only a month ago makes it all the better. The Barmy Army were in full unison throughout the test, led brilliantly by Jimmy and Billy as England scored heavily and then bowled excellently in a mad session after tea on day 4. The Barmy Army Patron joining us was a special moment and will be remembered by everyone there as Hoggy belted out Jerusalem...
Ironically the Test got off to the worst possible start as our beloved songmaster, Jimmy, was wrestled to the ground by a mad South African supporter. Jimmy being made of sterner stuff dusted himself down and continued singing his one song!

With the dramatic loss of 6 wickets yesterday afternoon, I bet there was some party in the evening?

Errr yes! Although everyone was aware of the 9:30 start and having been supporting England around the world now for some time we certainly weren't counting the chickens. But that's not to say that we didn't enjoy ourselves, we are on tour after all.
As we edged closer to victory the noise we were generating was phenomenal, I am sure the players greatly appreciated it. All the songs from the last few tours were belted out as the winning margin of our victory was becoming apparent. Paul Collingwood joined in with Norfolk Graham from the England Balcony with their and the Barmy Army's rendition of in the jungle the Durban jungle.
Great respect and decorum was shown to the South Africans as Smith gave his thoughts in the post match analysis which is always nice to see.
E I E I O OFF TO CAPE TOWN WE WILL GO, WHEN WE WIN THE SERIES THIS IS WHAT WE SING. WE ARE ENGLAND, WE ARE ENGLAND, STRAUSSY IS THE KING!

Looking ahead to NYE and the next Test, firstly what are the plans for the New Year and what about the next Test- much of the same I guess?

Absolutely. Cape Town will be a huge Test, in terms of support and importance. South Africa will be hurting from this defeat and traditionally raise their game in Cape Town. Being one of the world's most picturesque cricket grounds it attracts a huge number of supporters. What with days 1 and 2 falling on a Sunday and a bank holiday Monday you can expect to see sell outs. The Barmy Army will be there in huge numbers all looking to witness another famous win, but it won't be easy.
As you can imagine NYE is a massive one for us. The venue we have is spectacular and won't disappoint the Members who have purchased tickets through us. Based in the point yacht club in the Harbour, Le Med certainly will be a night to remember, if we can.
The day before the 3rd Test see's the Barmy Army play in their inaugural game of the tour. Head down to the Dumas Oval (Marists War Memorial Sports Club) to watch the Barmy Army take on Almar CC. There'll be a braai, a bar and some cricket to enjoy and get you in the mood for the third Test.

Final Thoughts

We have had an unbelievable time so far, I am sure everyone out here would agree. If you have missed the chance to grab a tour shirt or simply want one as a memento or a late Christmas gift then you can order one online. Just click here.
2009 has been a phenomenal year for England and for the Barmy Army. The Ashes regained, ODI Series win in South Africa for the first time ever and leading the Test Series with two to play. Let's hope for more of the same in 2010. Who knows this time next year we could be heading off to Sydney with the Ashes already retained. For more information on the forthcoming Ashes trip click here.