Bondi hero Ahmed Al-Ahmed honoured at Sydney Test match

England and Australia’s cricket teams on Sunday paid tribute to emergency service personnel and civilians who responded to last month’s mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

The guard of honour took place on the field ahead of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground and was met with loud applause from the sold-out crowd.

The biggest cheer came as Ahmed Al-Ahmed, hailed as a hero for running toward one of the attackers and wrestling the gun from him, walked onto the field.

Father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram are accused of carrying out the attack at a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach on December 14, not far from the stadium. Fifteen people were killed and dozens wounded in what authorities have described as a terrorist attack.

Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg described the incident as “a devastating tragedy.”

“The incredible acts of bravery by first responders and community members were a reminder of the spirit of community and self-sacrifice that unites us as a nation,” Greenberg said. “Our thoughts remain with those affected, and as a sport we will continue to provide whatever support we can.”

Those honoured included ambulance workers, police officers, surf lifesavers and members of community organisations involved in the response.

Security has been tightened for the Test match, with mounted police as well as public order and riot squad officers patrolling the venue.

Similar security measures were in place during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, where specialist police officers were deployed carrying semi-automatic rifles.