Dylan Bettencourt
The suspect behind the violent assault of South African cricketer Mondli Khumalo in the UK has been arrested and charged by local police.
Former under-19 and KwaZulu-Natal Inland seamer Khumalo was badly beaten on Sunday, forcing the youngster to be hospitalised.
“A 20-year-old man was assaulted during this incident and he’s in hospital undergoing treatment after suffering serious head injuries,” Avon and Somerset Police told the Somerset County Gazette.
“The incident happened at around 03:00 in the Friarn Street area and involved a large number of people.”
Khumalo is said to be in an induced coma following the assault after medical officials found him unconscious at the scene.
He has already undergone surgery for the injuries caused by the assault.
The 27-year-old suspect was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.
The suspect was then released under investigation.
Khumalo now applies his trade for North Petherton in England. The assault came after he and the team were celebrating a victory earlier in the day.
“We’re taking steps to ensure Mondli’s family in South Africa are being kept fully updated on his condition, as well as how our investigation is progressing,” Avon and Somerset superintendent Richard Turner said.
“A full investigation is underway, and we’ve carried out house-to-house enquiries and are continuing to review CCTV footage from around the area to ensure we gather all available evidence.”
Khumalo’s team, North Petherton, said they were shocked by the incident.
“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 club said in a statement.
“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.”
There is no set date as to when Khumalo will be released from hospital.
As the medical bills and further treatment remain unknown, North Petherton have set up a crowdfunder page for anyone willing to donate towards the medical expenses.
Image source: @BBC
