GLAMORGAN cricketer Ryan Watkins was commended by Gwent Police for rushing to officers' aid as they were assaulted during an arrest.

Now the 24-year-old all-rounder is due to join the special constabulary in October or November and is even considering a career with the police if he leaves professional cricket.

Mr Watkins was driving in Blackwood in November last year when he spotted two police officers arresting three men.

The three people were heavily intoxicated and were being abusive and aggressive towards ambulance staff, were resisting arrest and threatening the police officers with violence.

Seeing the police were outnumbered, Mr Watkins -wearing shorts and flip-flops - restrained the third man until back-up arrived.

"I'd just popped out to see my dad and get a pint of milk when I saw this police car across the road with its lights flashing," he said.

"I could see the two policemen struggling. They had two on the floor. The men were kicking and hitting and spitting."

A police spokesman said: "With both officers having already been assaulted, if he had not intervened the situation could have been far worse."

One of the men had to be restrained and another sprayed with PAVA, before their arrests.

Mr Watkins, Glamorgan's young player of the year in 2006, now plans to join the special constabulary in October or November.

He said: "I wanted to start sooner, but summer was a busy time with cricket and I also had a groin injury."

As a special, Mr Watkins will do four hours unpaid work each week with the police and will have the same powers of arrest as full-time officers.

He said: "Policing really appeals to me. My dad has been a policeman for the last 24 years, so it's always been something I've had an interest in."

Inspector Mike Fleming, of Blackwood Police, said: "His actions were over and above what would be expected from a member of the public and were very much appreciated by the officers involved in that incident."

All three offenders have been dealt with for various offences, including section 4 public Order, assault of police, drunk and disorderly and resist arrest. ASBO referrals have also been submitted. They each incurred custodial sentences and fixed financial penalties.