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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 Victoria, following coming back from a extended period in Auckland after undergoing a neurosurgical procedure.

Sequence of Events

The 25-year-old suffered three separate head injuries in a single afternoon while representing the Tongan national team in a international fixture against the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced convulsions while off the field, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A medical operation to address bleeding on the brain left Katoa hospitalized and temporarily grounded to his club base.

The team revealed this week that the forward has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also made a brief visit to a Melbourne hospital.

“His health and recovery are our top concern,” said Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him back home 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.

However, the CEO confirmed that there is no timeframe for his return to health or a comeback to the field.

“After discussions with our medical team and neurology experts, Eli will not return to practice during the preseason and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” Rodski declared. “He has a long road ahead ahead of him, and his focus will be on returning to full health prior to contemplating any form of return to rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Katoa is a highly valued and respected member of our team and organization, and that the Storm family will rally around him and support him through his recovery.

Broader Context

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

The talented player, who was named in the league's best lineup at the annual awards ceremony, seemed to sustain a head injury during the pregame routine for the international contest.

Despite this, Katoa was cleared to participate in the game and endured two more head impacts before coming off in the second half.

His state deteriorated quickly, and he needed medical oxygen on the sideline before being removed from the field on a stretcher.

The NRL has attempted to address issues around concussions in the game in recent seasons, implementing crackdowns on high tackles and expanding the post-concussion stand down period for affected players.