Barmy Army Decide not to Arrange trip for Bangladesh tour

The Barmy Army, which is renowned for arranging touring parties for English fans, have stated that they will not travel to Bangladesh due to security concerns. England are slated to play three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and two Tests in October.

Steven Smith, the office manager for the Barmy Army, said in a statement that they will still share the travel advice, if any individual wants to undertake the trip. He further elaborated on the security measures that the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has promised for the upcoming tour.

"Behind the scenes we have been liaising with the ECB and the BCB and have now received advice from the latter," he said. "We have been supplied with a list of hotels in Dhaka and Chittagong that will receive protection from the Bangladeshi Police and been told that England supporters will be afforded their own segregated area within the stadium.

"However, on the issue of escorts to and from stadiums (where due to local traffic conditions supporters will be most vulnerable to attack), we have been supplied with the contact details of a private security company, the implication being that any extra security will have be at supporter's own expense.

"Whilst we are grateful that the BCB are taking an interest, we feel these measures do not yet go far enough to persuade us to go against FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) advice," he observed.

The Barmy Army, known as the 'unofficial 12th man' of English cricket, previously organised tours to Bangladesh in 2003, 2010 and for the 50-over World Cup held in the subcontinent in 2011. Smith said that the group regrets the fact that they won't be able to make the trip, this time around.

"It is a matter of great regret that we feel unable to endorse travel to Bangladesh. Those of us lucky enough to have visited this country on previous tours have lasting and fond memories of a warm welcome, friendly locals and wonderful food.

"Perhaps the greatest pleasure being able to mix freely with the general population, particularly in and around the stadiums. We were also able to wander and explore the teeming cities of Dhaka and Chittagong without fear. FCO advice specifically warns against such activities."