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The Storm forward Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 rugby league season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in his home state, following coming back from a prolonged stay in Auckland after undergoing a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old sustained three separate head injuries during a single match while representing the Tongan national team in a international match versus New Zealand. Subsequently, he experienced convulsions while on the sideline, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to address a brain bleed left Katoa hospitalized and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

The club revealed this week that Katoa has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also been briefly admitted to a local medical facility.

“His health and recovery are our number one priority,” stated the club's chief executive a team official. “It is great to have him home safely and under the supervision of our medical staff and local specialists.”

The Road to Recovery

Rodski added that the athlete is making daily progress and is looking forward to pursuing his recovery from home.

Importantly, the CEO stated that there is no timeframe for his return to health or a potential return to training.

“After discussions with our doctor and neuro specialists, Katoa will not return to training this pre-season and is ruled out for the upcoming season,” he emphasized. “He has a lengthy recovery process ahead of him, and his primary goal will be on returning to full health before considering a potential comeback to training.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Eli is a highly valued and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the entire club will rally around him and assist him during his recovery.

League Investigation

The NRL is wrapping up its investigation into the circumstances that led to Katoa’s surgery.

The powerful forward, who was named in the league's best lineup at the recent Dally M awards, seemed to sustain a concussion during the warm-up for the international contest.

Despite this, Katoa was cleared to participate in the game and suffered two more head impacts before being substituted in the second half.

Katoa’s condition worsened rapidly, and he required oxygen on the sideline before being taken off on a stretcher.

The NRL has sought to tackle concerns around concussions in the game in recent years, introducing crackdowns on high tackles and expanding the post-concussion stand down period for injured athletes.