The Managing Director of the Barmy Army, England Cricket’s Supporters Club, Chris Millard has expressed his concerns in an official statement on whether England will play in Pakistan or not.
With just over a month remaining, questions linger about whether the series will take place in Pakistan as scheduled or be moved to an alternative venue such as the UAE or Sri Lanka.
Chris Millard has expressed frustration over the situation, highlighting the lack of clarity affecting fans, players, and organizers before the event.
He emphasized that the Barmy Army has worked tirelessly to provide supporters with travel options to Pakistan, where they plan to visit Multan, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.
However, the ongoing uncertainty regarding stadium readiness and incomplete construction has cast doubt on those plans.
“With just over a month to go until the start of the Test series between England and Pakistan, we, like everyone else, remain in the dark about whether or not it will be played in Pakistan. Since the schedule was announced, the Barmy Army has been working hard to give England fans the opportunity to travel to Multan, Karachi, and Rawalpindi all of which have already been visited by members of our team in preparation for this tour.” Chris Millard said in an official statement.
Millard said that fans are being left in the dark, reflecting on the difficulties that both the England team and its supporters are facing.
He further warned that if the schedule changes again, the Barmy Army might be unable to send its signature trumpeter, Finchy, to the series, something that would disappoint both fans and players.
“Moreover, the precarious situation could ultimately lead to the Barmy Army, including our trumpeter, being unable to travel for the series. Should there be any further changes to the schedule, we would have to consider if it is financially feasible to send Finchy. This would be a huge shame for the Test series as we know how much the players, fans, and locals value it.” he added further.
For now, the Barmy Army and cricket fans globally await official confirmation as the series between Pakistan and England kickstarts on October 7.
