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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 rugby league season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in his home state, after returning from a extended period in Auckland after undergoing a neurosurgical procedure.

Sequence of Events

The 25-year-old sustained three separate head injuries in a single match while playing for Tonga in a international match versus New Zealand. This led to seizures while on the sideline, requiring urgent medical care.

A medical operation to relieve a brain bleed left Katoa hospitalized and initially unable to travel to his club base.

The team announced recently that the forward has finally returned home and is recovering, having also made a brief visit to a local medical facility.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our number one priority,” stated Storm CEO 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 eager to continuing his rehabilitation in a home environment.

Importantly, the executive confirmed that there is no timeframe for Katoa’s recovery or a potential return to training.

“After discussions with our doctor and neuro specialists, Katoa won't be back to practice during the preseason and won’t be available for the upcoming season,” he emphasized. “He has a long road ahead in his recovery, and his primary goal will be on returning to full health prior to contemplating a potential comeback to training.”

Rodski concluded by noting that Eli is a much loved and respected member of our team and club, and that the entire club will support him fully and assist him during his rehabilitation period.

Broader Context

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its investigation into the circumstances that led to Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was named in the league's best lineup at the annual awards ceremony, seemed to sustain a concussion during the warm-up for the Pacific Championship match.

However, he was allowed to play in the match and suffered two additional blows to the head before being substituted in the second half.

Katoa’s condition worsened rapidly, and he needed medical oxygen on the sideline before being removed from the field on a stretcher.

The league has attempted to address issues around concussions in the game in recent years, implementing stricter enforcement on high tackles and expanding the mandatory recovery time for injured athletes.