Oz ex-cricketer remanded in custody on domestic violence charges

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MAROOCHYDORE, Australia (AP) — Former Australian test cricketer Michael Slater has been remanded in custody while awaiting trial on 19 charges relating to domestic violence, stalking and breaches of bail.

The 54-year-old Slater was refused bail Tuesday when he appeared in Maroochydore Magistrates Court, about an hour north of Brisbane in Queensland state, charged with unlawful stalking or intimidation, breaking into a dwelling with intent at night, common assault, assault occasioning bodily harm and choking or suffocation.

He was arrested Friday for the alleged offenses between December 5 and April 12, and on 10 counts of contravening a domestic violence order.

Slater made his debut for Australia in 1993 and played 73 test matches, scoring 5,312 runs at an average of almost 43. He also played 42 limited-overs internationals before retiring from professional cricket in 2004 and launching a lengthy career in television commentary.

He was remanded in custody until his next appearance in the same court on May 31.

The Australian Broadcasting Corp. reported that Slater collapsed to the floor and had to be helped up by security staff when Magistrate Raelene Ellis denied his bail application.

Australia Cricketer Michael Slater in Sydney, Australia, Wednesday, June 9, 2004, is pictured after announcing his retirement from 1st class cricket. PHOTO: AP