Coach Craig Bellamy confirmed Slater would not be risked after playing just one game in the past 18 months.

Turning 34 this year, the fullback’s recovery is said to be tracking well, however, his confidence is said to be down.

Slater has returned to full-contact training.  

Melbourne backrower Tohu Harris is also sidelined with a stress fracture in his foot and will miss the opening weeks of the competition.