Durban - E.tv has failed in its bid to broadcast the Schabir Shaik criminal trial live from the Durban High Court, the court said on Tuesday.

Judge Hillary Squires said that by declining to accede to e.tv's demands he would be limiting their right to use the tools of their trade.

However, they do have the right to film events outside the court or compile reports later through reporters who had sat in on proceedings.

Both the State and Shaik opposed the application.

Shaik faces two counts of corruption and one of fraud.

He is alleged to have made payments totalling R1.25 million for deputy president Jacob Zuma's benefit between 1996 and 2002, in return for Zuma using his political clout to further Shaik's complex business interests.

With acknowledgements to Elmarie Jack, Sapa and News24.