Sport|CricketBondi attack hero al-Ahmed, responders honoured at Australia cricket matchBefore the fifth Ashes Test, Australian and English cricket teams honour responders who rushed to the site of the shooting.
The cricket teams of England and Australia, along with attendees at the Sydney Cricket Ground, commemorated the emergency service personnel and public members who responded to a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in December.
The cricket teams of England and Australia, along with attendees at the Sydney Cricket Ground, commemorated the emergency service personnel and public members who responded to a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in December.
Prior to the commencement of the fifth Test match of the Ashes series on Sunday, both teams formed a guard of honour on the field. Spectators participated with applause.
The audience gave a notable ovation to Ahmed al-Ahmed, who intervened by disarming one of the attackers. He appeared with his right arm in a sling, recognized for his bravery during the incident.
Ahmed al-Ahmed, a 43-year-old Australian citizen of Syrian origin, was present at the scene during the attack. He is credited with assisting in neutralizing one of the attackers.
The cricket teams of England and Australia, along with attendees at the Sydney Cricket Ground, commemorated the emergency service personnel and public members who responded to a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in December.
Ahmed al-Ahmed and emergency service personnel received a guard of honour on day one of the fifth Ashes Test match between Australia and England at the Sydney Cricket Ground, January 4, 2026 [Glenn Nicholls/AFP]
The incident, described as an anti-Jewish terrorist attack, occurred at Bondi Beach during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration. Two individuals, Sajid and Naveed Akram, were identified as the perpetrators, resulting in 15 fatalities and at least 42 injuries.
Cricket Australia Chief Todd Greenberg referred to the event as a "devastating tragedy," highlighting the bravery of first responders and community members. The organization remains committed to supporting those affected.
Recognition was extended to various responders, including ambulance staff, police officers, surf lifesavers, and Jewish community groups.
Enhanced security arrangements are in place for the Test, involving uniformed and mounted police as well as public order and riot squad officers. These measures are consistent with those implemented during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
