Cricketer Slater’s collapse in court
Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater has collapsed in court after failing in his bid for freedom over an alleged domestic violence incident.
Police allegations against the former Test cricketer and commentator were detailed in court on Tuesday as Slater applied for bail.
The 54-year-old has spent the past few days in the Maroochydore police watch house since his arrest at the weekend. Some of the alleged violent acts were captured on CCTV cameras at the woman’s property, including alleged verbal abuse – screaming abuse before smashing his way into the home.
Slater placed his head in his hands upon learning his bail bid had been refused. He then collapsed while being led back to the cells.
Slater faces charges, including enter dwelling with intent by break at night, choking, assault occasioning bodily harm, stalking and breaching bail, alleged to have occurred on December 5, 2023, and on April 12 this year.
Legal Aid solicitor Michael Robinson on Tuesday told the court his client planned to reside in a rehab facility in Sydney if released from custody.
Maroochydore Magistrates Court was told Slater denied any allegations of violence.
“There’s documented evidence before the court that he will be out of the court’s jurisdiction and in a rehab facility,” Mr Robinson said.
Bail was opposed by police, with prosecutor Sergeant Brendan Newman saying court orders, prior court sentences and grants of bail had not deterred Slater.
The court was told part of Slater’s alleged offending involved “serious” acts of violence. Bail was refused.
Slater scored 5312 runs, playing 74 test matches and 42 oneday internationals for Australia between 1993 and 2001.
He then transitioned to commentary with channels 7 and 9 after retiring.