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The Storm forward Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in Victoria, after coming back from a prolonged stay in New Zealand after undergoing brain surgery.

What Happened

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

A surgical procedure to relieve bleeding on the brain resulted in Katoa hospitalized and initially unable to travel back to Melbourne.

The club revealed recently that Katoa has now come back and is recovering, having also made a brief visit to a local medical facility.

“His health and recovery remain our top concern,” stated the club's chief executive Justin Rodski. “It is great to have him back home and under the care of our medical staff and local specialists.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rodski added that the athlete is making daily progress and is eager to pursuing his recovery in a home environment.

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

“In consultation with our doctor and neurology experts, Katoa will not return to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the upcoming season,” he emphasized. “There is a lengthy recovery process ahead of him, and his primary goal will be on returning to full health before considering any form of return to training.”

Rodski finished by noting that Eli is a much loved and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the entire club will support him fully and assist him during his rehabilitation period.

League Investigation

The National Rugby League is wrapping up its inquiry into the circumstances that resulted in the required neurosurgery.

The talented player, who was named in the competition’s team of the year at the recent Dally M awards, seemed to sustain a head injury during the pregame routine for the Pacific Championship match.

Despite this, he was allowed to play in the match and endured two additional blows to the head before coming off in the second half.

His state worsened rapidly, and he needed medical oxygen on the sideline before being taken off on a stretcher.

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