Slater prepares for a recall

Test opener Michael Slater will use the interstate limited overs competition in a bid to realise an obsession by returning to Australia's one-day cricket team.

The dashing opening batsman has not played a limited overs international for four seasons and is hoping New South Wales' schedule of at least 10 one-day games for the 2000-01 season, will prepare him for a national recall.

"It becomes a bit of an obsession," Slater said at Thursday's launch of this year's domestic one-day competition.

"At times if I've missed out in the first game knowing that I might have only two Cup games --- then the pressure I place myself under in the second game is pretty ridiculous.

"Last year the few opportunities I had, I didn't do myself any favours performance-wise."

Despite being an aggressive and free-scoring batsman, Slater has struggled with the one-day format, averaging just 24 in 42 games for Australia.

His last match was in 1997 against England at The Oval.

"The selectors have always said over the years they want to see one-day performances for the one-day game. Now that we've got twice as many games it gives me a lot better opportunity to prove my worth," Slater said.

The re-jigged domestic competition features a home and away series with states playing each other twice.

Slater said he is concerned about consistency in international cricket, the 30-year-old bemoaning a lack of depth in many Test playing nations.

"You need four countries at least to be playing good, consistent cricket," he said.

"We need to see someone like the West Indies come back and become a force again."

Slater said he was looking forward to facing the Windies despite their current lack of strength and was hopeful fast bowling great Courtney Walsh would make a farewell appearance in Australia.

"In the past he's got me out a couple more times than I would have liked and I'd like to once and for all get the wood on him and score a few off him."

Mail Cricket Editor