Sun Jan 04 08:35:45 UTC 2026: Summary:
Before the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney, the Australian and English cricket teams, along with the crowd, paid tribute to the first responders and civilians who bravely intervened during the Bondi Beach mass shooting in December. The shooting, described as an anti-Jewish terrorist attack, resulted in 15 deaths and over 40 injuries. Hero Ahmed al-Ahmed, a fruit shop owner who disarmed one of the attackers, received a standing ovation. Increased security measures are in place for the Test match.
News Article:
Ashes Test Begins with Tribute to Bondi Shooting Heroes
Sydney, Australia – The fifth Ashes Test match between Australia and England at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) began with a poignant tribute to the emergency service personnel and everyday heroes who responded to the horrific mass shooting at Bondi Beach in December.
Before the start of play on Sunday, both teams formed a guard of honour on the field, met with resounding applause from the sold-out crowd. The tribute was for all responders from ambulance and police workers to surf lifesavers and members of Jewish community groups.
The loudest cheer was reserved for Ahmed al-Ahmed, a 43-year-old fruit shop owner, hailed as a hero for wrestling a gun from one of the attackers. Al-Ahmed, who arrived with his right arm in a sling, was widely praised for his bravery, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recognizing his actions as an example of “Australians coming together.”
The Bondi Beach attack, which authorities have described as an anti-Jewish terrorist act, saw two men, identified as Sajid and Naveed Akram, open fire during a Hanukkah celebration, tragically killing 15 people and wounding at least 42.
Cricket Australia chief Todd Greenberg acknowledged the tragedy, stating, “The incredible acts of bravery by first responders and community members at the scene of the Bondi attack were a reminder of the spirit of community and self-sacrifice that unites us as a nation.”
In light of the attack, a heightened security presence is in place at the SCG, including uniformed and mounted police, along with public order and riot squad officers, mirroring the security protocols implemented for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. The fifth Ashes Test has started under these measures with all the focus on celebrating our heroes.
First Piper 