The on-field guard of honour before the match drew loud applause from the sold-out crowd, honouring ambulance workers, police, surf lifesavers and Jewish community groups.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"A privilege and honour to host the first responders responsible for displayed tremendous bravery during the Bondi Beach terrorist attack,\" Cricket Australia shared on X.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The loudest ovation was reserved for Ahmed al Ahmed, who bravely confronted one of the attackers and disarmed him. The names of the 15 victims appeared on the stadium screens beneath the words \u201cForever in our hearts\u201d as first responders led the procession onto the field.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWhat an emotional ceremony and a standing ovation that you can imagine could have gone on and on and on,\u201d former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist said on Fox Cricket.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cA fine tribute to the first responders, the heroes of the tragic events that transpired in Bondi. They are heroes of the nation.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
A heightened security operation is in place for the SCG Test, with uniformed and mounted police, along with public order and riot squad officers, patrolling the venue.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cA fine tribute to the first responders, the heroes of the tragic events that transpired in Bondi. They are heroes of the nation.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Sixteen people, including one gunman, were killed in the mass shooting at Bondi Beach on December 14. The perpetrators have been identified as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram.<\/p>\r\n\r\n