Hashim’s Army continues to keep the crowd pumping with clever chants and catchy choruses, as they celebrate their 10-year-anniversary during the Test Series against England.
The Hashim’s Army was founded about 10 years ago. One of the founders, Scotty Young, with a group of Rondebosch boys and Western Province Cricket Club members drew inspiration from England’s Barmy Army who are now their fierce rivals.
They started as of as a bunch of friends, about 20 people in the first year that the Army formed, but now it has grown substantially, filling up a large chunk of Block C at Newlands.
“It’s our 10 year reunion and it’s fitting that it’s at Newlands with England and the Barmy Army. They not singing much which is quite bizarre,” said Young.
“It’s all about, (gets distracted by the visitor occupying the crease) hah, the Hadeda.
“It’s all about just bringing guys together, Cricket is suppose to be enjoyed and that’s what we want to do – sing for the Proteas and support them with a bunch of mates.”
Although Hashim Amla has retired, the group will remain “Hashim’s Army” with zero intention of changing the name anytime soon, or ever.
“We want to stay the same, with Hashim’s Army, it’s respect shown to a legend and complete ambassador of the sport. There’s no need to change it, everyone loves it.”
The vibe they create at the ground is amazing. I walked down from the pressbox and soaked up some of the atmosphere. With all the English flags and support, their voices were in full flow. Definitely sounded like a signature Newlands Test day.
The banter between the two groups are hilarious and fun at the same time.
“It looks encouraging” he said when asked about his thoughts about the changes in SA cricket
“There was a time not too long ago when people were questioning some things, and it looks like things have changed a bit,”he added.
“You have guys coming back (into the system) who’s been around through SA’s good times.
“We’re always going to be supporting and we hope Cricket South Africa goes from strength to strength.”
Written by Naeemah Benjamin
Check out Khalid Mohidin’s exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of Hashim’s Army:
