Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins has issued an emotional statement on Instagram as the sporting world grieves the tragedy in Bondi.
Ahead of the third Ashes Test at Adelaide Oval, Cummins said he was “absolutely devastated by the horror” at Bondi, while also calling for people to donate blood.
“Absolutely devastated by the horror last night in Bondi,” Cummins, who lives less than 2km away from Bondi in the neighbouring area of Bronte, said.
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“My heart goes out to the victims, their families, the people of Bondi and our Jewish community during this time.
“If you can, please book an appointment to donate blood.”
The tragedy has left the cricket world in a state of a shock, and flags were flying at half mast above the Adelaide Oval scoreboards on Monday.
Cummins is set to return to the team for his first Test match of the summer and he, along with the other cricketers, are expected to wear black armbands as a mark of respect to the victims and their families.
It is also expected a minute’s silence will be observed ahead of the Wednesday Test.
Veteran Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon, who is also back in the team, said: “We’re extremely saddened …. (it’s) a horrific day for everyone involved and we stand by them and our thoughts and prayers are with them.”
While Usman Khwaja, who is known for his strong views on the situation in the Middle East region, said he had been “up before the break of dawn” to pray for the Jewish and Bondi community.
“Truly devastating news from Bondi today,” Khwaja said.
“Lives lost senselessly, families shattered, the Bondi community traumatised. There are now words — only heartbreak.
“My thoughts and prayers to all affected.”
England batter Harry Brook faced the media on Monday and said “it was a horrendous day for everybody involved”.
“All of our, my condolences and everybody involved with England cricket and we are really thinking about them … we support them all the way through and we’re extremely sorry for what happened.”
And Cricket Australia and the England Cricket Board issued a joint statement on Monday.
“Everybody at Cricket Australia and the England & Wales Cricket Board is horrified by the tragic events at Bondi Beach yesterday evening, the statement said.
“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.”
