Cricket: Slater confirms retirement

Former Australian test opening batsman Michael Slater yesterday confirmed his retirement from first-class cricket and said the decision had been a painful one to make.

Slater, 34, had not played since last November and said the reactive arthritis he had suffered from since that time had proven to be "very stubborn".

While disappointed he was offered a decreased contract from last season, Slater was adamant it was his health rather than the reduced salary which prompted his retirement.

Slater played 74 tests, averaging 42.84, and 216 first-class matches for an overall average of 40.85.

He rated Pakistan left-arm paceman Wasim Akram as the best bowler he had faced.