Brisbane, Australia – Former Australian Test cricketer Michael Slater has received a four-year suspended prison sentence after pleading guilty to a series of domestic violence offences — but will walk free due to time already served in custody.
The 55-year-old, once a staple at the top of Australia’s Test batting order, was sentenced in a Queensland court after admitting to:
- Two counts of common assault
- One count of unlawful striking
- One count of assault occasioning bodily harm
- Burglary
- Two counts of strangulation
Slater Spared Further Custody
Despite the gravity of the charges, Slater avoided additional time behind bars after serving more than a year in police custody following his bail refusal in April 2024. The court recognised his time already served and suspended the remainder of his four-year term.
Presiding Judge Glen Cash addressed Slater directly, stating: “It’s obvious that you are an alcoholic… alcoholism is part of your make-up,” and warned that recovery would “not be easy.”
Collapsed in Courtroom Drama
During his bail hearing last year, Slater collapsed in court after his application was denied. He had to be physically supported by prison officers and has remained in custody since.
Slater played 74 Tests for Australia between 1993 and 2001, racking up more than 5,000 runs — including 14 centuries and 21 half-centuries. Known for his aggressive stroke play, he was a fan favourite during his playing days.
Post-retirement, Slater transitioned into broadcasting. He joined Channel 4 in the UK before moving back to Australia to work with the Seven Network. However, his broadcasting career came to a halt in 2021 when he was dropped by the network.
Previous Offences
This isn’t Slater’s first encounter with the law. In 2022, he was handed a two-year community corrections order by a Sydney court after admitting to common assault and attempted stalking.
Michael Slater’s journey from cricketing glory to courtroom drama is a sobering tale of talent derailed by personal demons. With his sentence suspended and his freedom regained, all eyes will be on whether he can turn a new page, away from the shadows of his past.
