Slater defends run-out record

Michael Slater said it was unfortunate -- but nothing else -- that he has been involved in three run-outs in this summer's Test series against the West Indies after another catastrophic mix-up cost a wicket in Sydney on Wednesday.

Mark Waugh was run-out for 22 after previously cruising along unruffled in a third-wicket partnership with Slater.

The Australians, pursuing their 15th successive Test victory and an unprecedented 5-0 series whitewash, were 284 for four at stumps after the second day, for a lead of 12 runs over the tourists with six wickets in hand.

Slater was on 63 at the time and was later frustrated to be caught going for a boundary when four runs short of his hundred -- the ninth time he had been dismissed in the 90s in Tests.

Earlier it had been apparent only an error was going to break up the blossoming partnership between Slater and Waugh, and it came in the 30th over at 109 for two when Waugh hit behind point and started off for a run. But Slater hesitated and called out forcing Waugh to do a double-take. Waugh could not beat Sherwin Campbell's throw to keeper Ridley Jacobs to be out when he looked set for a big score.

The finger has been pointed at Slater throughout the series for his jack-rabbit running between wickets. His opening partner Matthew Hayden has been run-out twice, in the first and third Tests.

But Slater was adamant there was nothing wrong with his running between wickets.

"In 67 Test matches I think I've been involved in six run-outs and that's over the course of eight years," said Slater.

"It's unfortunate that I've been involved in three this summer."

Slater said Waugh had motioned down the wicket without calling and he went off his partner's body movement.

"I was awaiting his call of yes, I couldn't see the angle and with his body movement I thought it must have been hitting the gap and if got past Sherwin there was going to be two.

"I was watching Mark and when I looked over Sherwin was picking it up, so then I called 'No', but we had both committed too far and unfortunately for Mark he was going back to the danger end and he was found short.

"It was a mix-up that maybe both of us were at fault, but it was a shame because our partnership was just starting to gain momentum.

"It always seems such a waste. A run-out is a cheap wicket and today it was a mixture of both of us."

Mail Cricket Editor