The opening day of Big Bash League (BBL|15) was overshadowed by a devastating mass shooting at Bondi Beach, leaving Australian cricket grappling with tragedy as the Sydney Sixers took the field thousands of kilometres away. What was meant to be a celebration of the new BBL season instead became a sobering reminder of events unfolding far beyond the boundary rope.
On Sunday evening, two gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah gathering at Bondi Beach, in an attack authorities have described as terrorism. At least 16 people were killed, including one of the attackers, while more than 40 others were injured, among them police officers who rushed to the scene. Officials have labelled the incident Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in decades, sending shockwaves across the nation.
Sixers stand in Perth as tragedy unfolds in Sydney
As the scale of the attack became clear, Sydney Sixers were in Perth for their season-opening clash against Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium. With Bondi located in their home city, the emotional toll on the visiting squad was immediate.
Recognising the gravity of the situation, Cricket Australia made the rare decision to temporarily relax its strict anti-corruption protocols, allowing Sixers players to access their mobile phones before the match. The move enabled players and staff to contact family and friends in the Bondi area and confirm their safety as emergency services continued their response.
The Sixers later confirmed that no players or team members were directly affected, but the anxiety of waiting for updates weighed heavily on the group.
Charlie Stobo reflects on emotional challenge faced by Sixers players
Fast bowler Charlie Stobo spoke about the emotional strain faced by the squad as they attempted to compartmentalise the tragedy while still fulfilling their professional commitments.
“We are wishing everyone affected speedy recoveries and all the best,” Stobo said. “We had our phones locked away and we were allowed to use them to just sort of check in with family and friends. It’s all happened pretty quickly.”
The match itself was rain-affected, adding to the strange atmosphere as players competed under floodlights while their home city mourned. For the Sixers, maintaining focus proved difficult as updates filtered through throughout the evening.
Cricket Australia and England & Wales Cricket Board offer condolence to all those affected
Players, officials and fans across the competition expressed condolences and solidarity with the victims and their families.
“Everybody at Cricket Australia and the England & Wales Cricket Board is horrified by the tragic events at Bondi Beach yesterday evening.
All of our thoughts are with the victims, their friends and families, the Jewish community and the people of Australia at this deeply distressing time.
Our condolences go out to all those affected.
We stand with you,” wrote CA and ECB in their shared social-media post.
Â
