The Durban High Court Schabir Shaik trial opens today with applications by SABC radio and eTV to make live audio recordings of the proceedings for use in edited packages to be broadcast later.

Although a "side-show' to the main event, the applications will bring welcome relief to all involved in the trial which has focused for more than a week on a forensic report.

Cross-examination of KPMG forensic auditor Johan van der Walt will begin tomorrow.

The two applications come in the wake of a similar bid by eTV at the start of the trial three weeks ago.

The private television station wanted to televise the proceedings which would be used in edited packages on the evening news.

This was opposed by both the State and Shaik on the grounds that it would be intimidating to witnesses.

Judge Hilary Squires concurred. Dismissing the application, he said it would violate a witness's right to privacy and could prejudice a fair trial.

Now SABC radio is applying to make audio recordings of the sessions for delayed broadcasts on radio in edited highlight packages.

The application by eTV is similar. It also wants to make audio recordings for use "on a live, delayed or edited basis" linked to footage, graphics and courtroom drawings.

Once again both the State - represented by Advocate Guido Penzhorn, SC - and Shaik's legal team, are opposing the applications for similar reasons as before.

With acknowledgements to Tania Broughton and the Daily News.