Pakistani cricketers appeal suspensions

Pakistani cricketers Salman Butt and Mohammad Amir have arrived at the International Cricket Council (ICC) headquarters in Dubai for a hearing by an independent tribunal over allegations of corruption.

Butt, who captained Pakistan in the recent test series against England, and fast bowlers Amir and Mohammad Asif were suspended last month after they were linked by a British newspaper to alleged spot-fixing.

The trio appealed against their suspensions but Asif withdrew his appeal on the grounds that he wanted more time to prepare for his challenge.

Michael Beloff QC, chairman of the ICC's code of conduct commission, will hear the appeal, which is expected to continue on Sunday.