Billy Slater won’t be risked for Round 1

Storm fans will have to wait just a little bit longer for the return of Billy Slater.

The champion fullback has been all but ruled of the Club’s season opener against the Bulldogs next Friday night.

Head Coach Craig Bellamy confirmed the news at Melbourne’s season launch on Friday.

“I’m pretty sure he won’t be playing the first couple of rounds but everything is going along pretty well to be quite honest,” Bellamy said.

“We are really happy with the way it is progressing but I am pretty sure he won’t be out there next week.”