Slater's 'brilliant' post-WCC gesture to Leeds fan

Veteran fullback Billy Slater has been praised by rugby league fans far and wide for a kind gesture after his side's World Club Challenge victory.

The 34-year-old, who won the Clive Churchill Medal in last year's Grand Final, had plenty of other things on his mind in the immediate aftermath of Melbourne's victory over Leeds.

He was forced to sit out the second half after jarring his shoulder in a worrying collision.

But Slater's class shone through after the win, and instead of moping in sorrow, he was out mingling with the fans after the match.

The Storm superstar didn't just sign autographs and take selfies however, as he took a moment to make the night of a young fan, from Leeds.

Slater's incredible gesture was picked up after it was shared on Twitter by the young fan's father.

"Thank you Billy Slater for making my sons trip - handed over his winners medal," the tweet from Neil Robinson read.

Other league fans were quick to remark on what a kind gesture it was from Slater.

Meanwhile, Melbourne are confident Billy Slater won't miss the start of the season despite injuring his shoulder in the first half of the match.

The veteran fullback didn't return for the second half of the 38-4 win over the Super League champions at AAMI Park.

A club spokesperson said it was a "precaution" that Slater sat out the second half, with the injury not serious, and the Test star appeared out on the ground for the presentation without any obvious strapping.

It is believed to be his left shoulder, which had also kept him out of the 2016 season and the start of last year.

He was asked about the injury by Nine Network commentator Darren Lockyer as he left the field at halftime and replied it was "alright, mate".

Slater looked in sparkling form in the opening 40 minutes despite only resuming training three weeks after the Rugby League World Cup.

Melbourne open their season on Saturday March 10 against Canterbury in Perth.