Cricket Legend Slater Seeks Bail After Domestic Violence Charges

Former Australian batsman Michael Slater, renowned for his explosive batting style, has made a desperate plea for bail after being in custody since April on charges of domestic violence. The television commentator and ex-cricketer is accused of assaulting and choking a woman during a violent outburst, as well as sending her numerous abusive messages. Slater, who played 74 Test matches for Australia between 1993 and 2001, scoring over 5,000 runs and hitting 14 centuries, has faced a tumultuous period since his retirement from cricket in 2004.

Slater's legal team presented a new bail application on Tuesday, stating that he has secured a place at a residential rehabilitation clinic in New South Wales. Barrister Greg McGuire also informed the court that his client would "leave the state completely" to seek treatment if granted bail. The defence team is also prepared to accept restrictions on Slater's alcohol consumption and orders prohibiting contact with the complainant.

"There is a very real danger that he (Slater) will have spent too much time in custody by the time the matter is disposed of," McGuire argued. "The proposed conditions are that he goes to the Sydney clinic until such time as they are satisfied with his ability to leave. He's now faced the consequences of his behaviour...spending 4.5 months in custody."

Earlier this year, Slater reportedly collapsed in an Australian court in April after being refused bail on over a dozen charges. The 54-year-old had to be assisted by court staff after falling to the floor when a Queensland magistrate rejected his bail application, according to local media reports.

In a previous bail hearing, Supreme Court Justice Paul Freeburn denied Slater's application, citing a history of domestic violence. "The offences alleged are supported by some evidence, and are sustained and persistent," Justice Freeburn said at the time. "The risk of further or continued offending cannot be ignored."

Justice Freeburn also acknowledged Slater's history of mental health issues, including diagnoses of ADHD, major depressive disorder, insomnia, alcohol use disorder, and borderline personality disorder.

The outcome of Slater's bail application remains uncertain as he continues to navigate a challenging legal process.