Melbourne Storm fullback Billy Slater has been ruled out of this week’s Round 1 clash against the Bulldogs in Perth.



Slater will miss the opening round as a precaution with a shoulder complaint sustained in Storm’s World Club Challenge match.



After completing a contact session last Friday and some training today, it was decided to continue the cautious approach with his return.



Storm Football Director Frank Ponissi said, “Billy trained very well on Friday, however has pulled up a little sore since the session. Billy and the medical staff have decided to take the cautious approach and therefore he won’t play this Saturday.



“Scans have shown no structural damage, so we don’t expect Billy to be sidelined for long.”



On missing the match against the Bulldogs Slater said, “While I was very close to playing this weekend, I wanted to ensure I was ready and prepared to step onto the field for an NRL match and for what is a long and rigorous season, taking this precaution is the best course of action.”



Storm’s 21-man squad for the Round 1 game will be announced on Tuesday at 4pm.