According to research by Booking.com, ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022, a whopping half of England fans would travel more than 3,000 miles to follow their cricket team on an international tour, confirming them as one of the most dedicated groups of fans! The top reasons for watching and travelling for live sport were the atmosphere of the crowds (44 percent) and the unforgettable experiences live sport creates (34 percent).
When exploring cricket fans' habits and attitudes towards travel, Booking.com research found that the weather (73 percent) was the most important factor for England fans when deciding whether to follow their team around the globe.
This year's ICC Men's T20 World Cup is being hosted in Australia from 16 October to 13 November 2022, where temperatures are forecasted to soar to the high 20s. With little chance of rain stopping the gameplay, fans can also take the opportunity to enjoy some sun, with insights revealing that Brits are the top international nationality booking stays in Australia this October and November.
Fans are eager at the chance to support England against a big rival, with a quarter saying it's the best thing about the tournament taking place in Australia, as well as being able to visit famous Australian cricket grounds (15 percent). While fans call out the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as one of their favourite international cricket destinations (11 percent), it was Lord's Cricket Ground that came top (59 percent), with Kensington Oval in Barbados in third (6 percent).
Weather is not the only factor driving fans' dedication. Providing team support to help with a win (61 percent) and travelling with family (57 percent) are also key factors. Many are also willing to miss key life milestones, with over one in ten (12 percent) happy to skip their wedding to watch a cricket tour live. Some fans (12 percent) are also even willing to skive off work for the ultimate tour, while 18 percent would look to take advantage of their company's flexible working policy.
