Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater gets suspended jail term for domestic violence, judge tells him 'Your rehabilitation will not be easy'

Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater was on April 21 sentenced to four years in prison after he pleaded gulilty to several charges, including domestic violence. However, Slater will not go to jail as he was in custody for over a year.

As per a report by ABC Sport, Slater was handed a 'partly suspended' sentence because of the time he served in custody.

Domestic violence, unlawful stalking or intimidation, breaking into a dwelling with intent at night, common assault, assault occasioning bodily harm and choking or suffocation were part of a long list of offences Slater was charged for.

"The alcohol was a repeating feature with his offending as his behaviour becomes more erratic," the prosecution told the Maroochydore District Court.

"The court heard Slater made threats of self-harm as he warned the victim not to report harassment and she felt extremely fearful and exhausted by Slater's behaviour," the report further read.

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Slater received a warning from Judge Glen Cash as well. The judge said that his rehabilitation will not be easy.

"Your rehabilitation will not be easy — alcoholism is part of your make up," Cash said.

Slater's lawyer argued against the five-year sentence with parole after three sought by the prosecution. The lawyer said that Slater has abstained from alcohol during the custody that lasted over a year. He described the 55-year-old as "calm, lucid and insightful".

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Slater's Test and ODI career in numbers

The New South Wales-born batter made his Test and ODI debut in 1993. He played 42 ODIs and scored 987 runs at an unimpressive average of 24.07. He was dropped from the side after March 1997.

However, he had a long career as a Test player. From 74 Tests, he scored 5312 runs from 131 innings, averaging 42.83. He scored 14 centuries and 21 half-centuries. His last Test appearance was in the Ashes 2001 on England soil.