Billy will be back: Smith
MAROONS skipper Cameron Smith has dismissed fears Billy Slater’s career is over, revealing the Storm sensation will definitely return to the NRL this season.
Slater is set to be ruled out of Melbourne’s season opener against Canterbury on Friday night, representing the latest setback in his return from a second shoulder operation.
Three weeks ago, Slater spoke of his personal demons, admitting there is no guarantee he will play again as he takes a cautious approach to his rehabilitation.
The Storm have been tightlipped about Slater’s progress but Smith provided the most positive prognosis yet of a player he has known for 15 years.
“The good news is Billy Slater will play this year,” he said.
“I don’t have an exact date, but it will be earlier rather than later – the good thing is that the fans will see Billy Slater back on the field again.
“The coaches, as far as I know, haven’t put any pressure on him to be fit for Round 1. We’d love him to be there but if he feels he’s not right to go, it’s his decision.
“I’ve got my fingers crossed that Billy can get back to the way he can play and the way he wants to play.
“It’s exciting for all of us as teammates and the fans of rugby league to see Billy coming back to his best.
“When Billy was at his peak doing his thing, there wasn’t a better sight in rugby league. He always gave you a sense something would happen. I hope he can stay healthy and play out the whole season.”
Storm coach Craig Bellamy was more conservative in his assessment of the 33- year- old Slater, who has played just eight NRL games in two years.
“I’m pretty sure he won’t be playing the first couple of rounds,” Bellamy said.
“We’ve waited a long time and we’re not going to take any risks on him physically or mentally.”