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Australian Cricket Legend Michael Slater Collapses in Court After Bail Denial

Australian Cricket Legend Michael Slater Collapses in Court After Bail Denial

Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater. | Photo: ICC

Former Australian cricket star Michael Slater reportedly collapsed in a Queensland court on Tuesday after being denied bail on domestic violence charges. Slater, who faced a string of charges including verbal abuse, was dressed in prison greens as he placed his head in his hands and then collapsed while being led back to the cells by Corrective Services staff.

Slater was reportedly caught on camera screaming at the woman’s property and abusing her before smashing his way into the home. 19 charges have been put on him, including – ‘enter dwelling with intent by break at night, choking, assault occasioning bodily harm, stalking and breaching bail’ – all of which allegedly occurred on December 5, 2023 and on April 12 2024. Slater was also charged with breaching bail and 10 counts of ‘contravening a domestic violence order’. He reportedly stalked a woman and sometimes sent her more than 100 text messages a day

Slater’s case was mentioned at the Maroochydore Magistrates Court in Queensland on Monday, where Slater’s doctor stated that the 54-year-old was suffering from mental health issues and had acted in an “impulsive, reckless and uncharacteristic manner”.

Legal Aid solicitor Michael Robinson reportedly said that his Slater was planning to attend a rehabilitation centre facility in New South Wales if released from custody. But bail was not granted by Magistrate Raelene Ellis.

Slater represented Australia in 74 Tests from 1993-2001 and became a successful cricket commentator before being axed by the Seven Network in 2021.

Slater’s journey from the pinnacle of sporting success to the courtroom underscores the complexities of life beyond the boundary ropes. While his cricketing exploits earned him accolades and adulation from fans worldwide, his recent legal troubles have cast a shadow over his once-glorious career, prompting reflections on the challenges faced by sporting icons in their post-retirement lives.