The trial of a professional hunter who helped an American kill a popular lion named Cecil in an allegedly illegal hunt in Zimbabwe has been postponed to September 28.

Theo Bronkhorst appeared in a court in Hwange town, where he faces charges of failing to prevent an unlawful hunt.

If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison.

Givemore Muvhiringi, Bronkhorst's lawyer, asked for the trial postponement so he can prepare the case.

The prosecution did not object and magistrate Lindiwe Maphosa approved the postponement.

Bronkhorst assisted Walter James Palmer, an American dentist who killed Cecil in early July.

Zimbabwean officials said the killing of the lion was not approved and a cabinet minister said Dr Palmer should be extradited.

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