LONDON, Aug 23: Pakistan have appointed a top legal team from DLA Piper to represent Inzamam-ul-Haq at the ICC hearing. The lawyers will be fronted by Mark Gay, a renowned sports lawyer who has made his name in high-profile cases including ones involving tennis player Greg Rusedski and footballer Rio Ferdinand.

The Daily Telegraph on Wednesday claimed that Gay had been recommended to the Pakistan Cricket Board by Ehsan Mani, the former ICC president.

However, the paper also warned that the appointment could cause further issues as the ICC might not allow him into the hearing.

Under ICC regulations, Inzamam is allowed to bring with him his vice-captain and coach, but not his lawyers.

It is believed that negotiations were taking place with the ICC to allow this rule to be relaxed in view of the gravity of the charges, and it is also being reported that Pakistan might request a delay to allow them to prepare Inzamam's defence.

—Agencies