NORTH Petherton Cricket Club's overseas signing, Mondli Khumalo, is in an induced coma in Southmead Hospital Bristol, after he was assaulted in Bridgwater in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Khumalo is contracted by KwaZulu-Natal Inland in South Africa and has been capped four times at first-class level. He has also played for South Africa Under-19's team.

The CEO of KZN Inland, Jason Sathiaseelan, has told Club Cricket SA that Mondli is in an induced coma and his mother is trying to source a passport to fly over and be with her son.

“He had surgery yesterday and the surgeon has reported that the operation was as successful as it could be. Mondli is in an induced coma, but the surgeon is positive that he can recover from this.

“We have been in contact with Mondli’s mom and we are doing our level best to obtain a passport for her, so that she can be with Mondli during this trying time," he said.

Yesterday (May 29, 2022), Avon and Somerset Police said: "A 20-year-old man was assaulted during this incident and he’s in hospital undergoing treatment after suffering serious head injuries.

"The incident happened at around 3am in the Friarn Street area, and involved a large number of people.

"A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm."

Khumalo is currently the overseas professional at North Petherton Cricket Club in England.

The cricket club said on social media: “All at North Petherton Cricket Club are in shock at the incident in Bridgwater that has led to our much-loved overseas player Mondli Khumalo being hospitalised in Southmead Hospital in Bristol this morning."

“The matter is now being investigated by the Avon and Somerset Police. We extend our heartfelt support to Mondli for a full and speedy recovery.

“Our hearts go out to his family, friends and colleagues in South Africa. Our thanks to those that helped Mondli, especially the health service staff on scene and at hospital.”

The police added: "We are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward, including anyone who either filmed it on a mobile phone, or who may have any relevant dash cam footage.

"If you can help, call us on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5222126854."

READ MORE: Serious attack in Frian Street, Bridgwater.