Things are rather different, though, for the 40 or so fans who have followed England to Pakistan and are having to adapt to another kind of tour.

"Instead of being in a bar drinking I'm finding myself sipping tea at some stall at 10 in the evening," said Rob Grace, a 34-year-old lift engineer from Northampton in central England.

Alcohol is officially banned for Muslims in Pakistan and, even for tourists, can be hard to find. British newspapers reported that the conservative city of Multan, where the first test was held earlier this month, had only one place selling alcohol and that closed at five p.m.

Fans say the heightened security on the tour is also creating an element of fear and preventing opportunities to explore historical or adventurous destinations.

"You could walk down the streets at night in Bangladesh and there were no problems," said Ken Wilkins, a 65-year-old Welshman.

"Pakistan is far worse. I'm enjoying it but it's not as much fun."

Wilkins came to Pakistan on his own and after the seven-week tour, which will cost him about $2,570 using budget hotels, he will move on to India for three months.

The Barmy Army accounts for the majority of England fans on tour. They save up enough money to be able to travel freely in the British winter.

Adrian Fox, a 43-year-old restaurateur from Sheffield in northern England, persuaded security officials to allow him to stand by television cameramen to gain a superior aerial view. He said the Barmy Army was breaking up, as fans did not like the way it had "sold out" by becoming a tour company.

Some England fans accuse the Barmy Army of being too exclusive and not mixing enough with the local people.