Rifle-toting police will patrol the 5th Ashes cricket test in Sydney following Bondi shootings

Australian police are deploying long-armed rifles at the final Ashes cricket test match in Sydney, marking an unusual security measure for sporting events in the country. The heightened security comes in response to the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack that shocked the nation three weeks ago.

The sold-out match at the Sydney Cricket Ground, which begins Sunday, will see an increased police presence including uniformed officers, mounted police, and members of both public order and riot squads. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon emphasized that the visible presence of officers carrying rifles is meant to reassure spectators rather than indicate any specific threat.

“Many people may not be used to seeing police carrying rifles at sporting events, but our objective here is to help the public feel safe and police will be out in force,” Lanyon said on Saturday. “The difference will be in the visibility of long-arms and a stronger presence. Police will otherwise be targeting anti-social and unsafe behavior as usual.”

The security approach mirrors measures implemented during the fourth Ashes test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, which began on December 26. At that event, specialist police officers armed with semiautomatic rifles patrolled the stadium grounds, nearby park areas, and the adjacent railway station.

These unprecedented security arrangements come after two gunmen attacked a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on December 14, killing 15 people and injuring numerous others. The attack stands as one of the worst terrorist incidents in Australia’s recent history and has prompted authorities to reassess security protocols at major public gatherings.

Seven victims of the Bondi attack remain hospitalized, with six reported to be in stable condition and one listed as critical but stable. The attack has left a deep mark on Sydney’s community and raised concerns about public safety during large events.

Naveed Akram, 24, one of the alleged attackers, faces 59 charges related to the incident, including 15 counts of murder. Akram was shot by police during the attack and spent several days in a coma before being charged. His father, Sajid Akram, 50, was killed by police at the scene.

The Ashes series, a storied cricket rivalry between Australia and England, traditionally draws large crowds and international attention. The final test match in Sydney represents not only the conclusion of this year’s series but also a significant test of Australia’s ability to maintain security at high-profile sporting events following the Bondi attack.

Cricket Australia, the sport’s governing body in the country, has been working closely with law enforcement to ensure spectator safety while maintaining the festive atmosphere typically associated with the summer cricket season. Officials have advised attendees to arrive early to accommodate additional security screening procedures.

Security experts note that visible policing measures, while potentially jarring for Australian sports fans unaccustomed to seeing armed officers at events, have become increasingly common at major sporting venues globally in response to terrorism concerns.

The increased security presence comes during Australia’s peak summer sporting season, when cricket grounds across the country typically host tens of thousands of spectators in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. The balance between maintaining this atmosphere and implementing necessary security protocols presents a challenge for authorities and event organizers alike.

Police have asked for public cooperation with the enhanced security measures and encouraged attendees to report any suspicious activity during the five-day test match, which concludes on Thursday.