Billy Slater has posted a heartfelt message to fans on his personal Instagram account, ahead of what will be his last game in Melbourne.
Slater's Melbourne Storm team takes on the Sharks on Friday night in a grand final qualifier at AAMI Park, with the winner advancing to the decider in Sydney and the loser going home.
Slater took to social media to document a special press conference in front of a mural, unveiled just down the road from the Storm's home ground.
"It's hard to believe this Friday night will be the last time I play a game in Melbourne," Slater wrote.
"This city has welcomed me, my team and the game of RL (sic) with open arms and I'm truly appreciative."
It was also pointed out that Slater's first ever NRL try came against the Cronulla Sharks, his opponent on Friday.
The Innisfail flyer has so far played 317 NRL games for Melbourne to go alongside his 31 State of origins for Queensland and 30 Tests for Australia.
