Technics SL-XP300 stopped working with batteries

My SL-XP300 did work perfectly but suddenly stopped working with batteries - it's find with the adapter. I left the batteries in (as normal) but when I came to use it again next day no response (batteries are not flat and I tried other batteries) - were should I be looking to find the problem?

I've been using AA Duracell NiMH rechargable batteries - this wouldn't cause an issue would it?

 

I downloaded the workshop manual and opened up the offending SL-XP300 - inside it looked perfect - little used. Why is it that none of the capacitors in either of my 1992 300's have failed yet most in my 1993 aiwa cassette players have leaked? I even tested the caps and they are all have low ESR.

Anyhow, the only component which I think could be causing the battery not to work is shown below - but I'm not sure what it is?

 

It is a fuse - perfect explanation for the battery not functioning...but it's not open circuit?