In a case that has rocked the cricketing community, former Australian Test opener Michael Slater has received a suspended four-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to a range of domestic violence charges.
Australia’s national broadcaster ABC reported that the 55-year-old former cricketer walked free from court on Tuesday after spending over a year in custody while awaiting trial.
Last year Slater reportedly collapsed in an Australian court after being refused bail on more than a dozen charges. He had to be helped to his feet by court staff after falling to the floor when a Queensland magistrate turned down his bail application.
Slater’s guilty pleas encompassed serious offences, including stalking and assault. The court said that Slater could face a return to jail if he commits another significant crime in the next five years, a provision indicating the gravity of the charges that was lodged against him.
Among the allegations against him, police said Slater sent unwanted text messages and made intimidating phone calls.
The court previously heard testimonies about Slater’s battle with mental health issues, which have reportedly contributed to his “impulsive and reckless” behaviour. Known post-retirement for his role as a prominent television pundit, his struggles contrast starkly with the charismatic image he cultivated during his cricket career.
Slater was dumped from the Seven Network’s cricket commentary team in 2021 after three years with the Australian broadcaster.
During his illustrious career, Slater represented Australia in 74 Test matches from 1993 to 2001, amassing over 5,000 runs, which included 14 centuries. He also played in 42 One-Day Internationals before retiring from the sport in 2004.
Additional reporting by AFP
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