Storm to let Billy decide his future

MELBOURNE are so well prepared for life after Billy Slater and Cooper Cronk they are happy to give Slater space to make his decision on whether to play next season.

Storm CEO David Donaghy said the club was fine with Slater taking time to decide if his body is able to withstand another season even though his slice of the salary cap pie next year would be significant.

Donaghy and Slater’s agent are set to have more talks about a one-year extension this week.

Jahrome Hughes has caught the eye at fullback, particularly in Melbourne’s win over Manly.

“We are pretty comfortable with where everything is at,’’ Donaghy said.

“We have spoken to Billy and his agent a few times. If Billy wants to play we’d love to have him. If he doesn’t, we’ll go to Plan B and have enough time.’’

Cronk will leave Melbourne at the end of the season and with each passing week there is less prospect a club will be able to pay him what he is worth.

Brodie Croft, 20, played with distinction at halfback when Cronk was absent during the Origin series, kicking a field goal in Cronk style to win a game against North Queensland.