Ryder attacker to go on trial next year

The suspect charged with injuring New Zealand batsman Jesse Ryder will go on trial almost two years after the savage attack.

The assault occurred outside Aikman's Bar in Merivale, Christchurch, on 28 March 2013. The alleged assailant is a 38-year-old builder. He has pleaded not guilty.

"An altercation has taken place on the footpath outside Aikman's involving Jesse and a group of at least two other males. The altercation was brief," said detective senior sergeant Brian Archer at the time.

"Following that incident, Ryder and two other persons walked across the road towards McDonald's, where his Wellington team-mates had been purchasing some food. A second altercation has taken place at the entrance to the McDonald's car park, involving one of the males from the earlier group."

The case will be the subject of a jury trial at the Christchurch district court in March next year. The suspect will be represented by lawyer Jonathan Eaton.

Ryder is currently playing for Essex in England's County Championship.