An accountability court extended on Thursday the physical remand of former prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PML-N) leader Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) contract case.

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) presented the PML-N leader before the court as his physical remand ends today. The bureau requested accountability Judge Mohammad Bashir to extend the remand of the leader. Accepting accountability watchdog's appeal, the accountability judge extended the physical remand till August 15, local media reported.

Judge Bashir also asked Abbasi to hire a lawyer so that he can oppose the bureau's plea for extension in physical remand.

The former premier was taken into NAB's custody on July 18. The bureau has accused the PML-N leader and others of misusing his authority and illegally awarding LNG terminal contract for a period of 15 years to a company of their liking.