The man accused of assaulting star cricketer Jesse Ryder outside a Christchurch bar last year is pushing to have his case dropped.
The 38-year-old defendant, who has name suppression, is seeking to have his case thrown out because of pre-trial publicity.
Defence counsel Jonathan Eaton has lodged a stay application at Christchurch District Court.
Today's hearing, before Judge Brian Callaghan, is behind closed doors, with all details of the hearing suppressed.
The accused, charged with injuring Ryder with reckless disregard for his safety on March 28 last year, is at court.
The hearing is expected to conclude later today.
- Kurt Bayer of APNZ
