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Melbourne Storm forward Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the entire 2026 rugby league season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in his home state, following returning from a prolonged stay in New Zealand where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

Sequence of Events

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three head impacts during a single match while representing Tonga in a international fixture against the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced convulsions while off the field, requiring urgent medical care.

A surgical procedure to relieve bleeding on the brain left the player hospitalized and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

The team revealed recently that the forward has finally returned home and is recovering, having also been briefly admitted to a Melbourne hospital.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our number one priority,” said the club's chief executive Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him home safely and under the supervision of our medical staff and specialist physicians.”

The Road to Recovery

Rodski noted that the player is improving each day and is eager to pursuing his recovery 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 will not return to practice during the preseason and is ruled out for the upcoming season,” Rodski declared. “He has a long road ahead in his recovery, and his primary goal will be on returning to full health before considering any form of return to training.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Eli is a much loved and respected member of our team and club, and that the Storm family will support him fully and support him through his recovery.

League Investigation

The NRL is currently finalizing its investigation into the events that led to Katoa’s surgery.

The powerful forward, who was named in the league's best lineup at the annual awards ceremony, appeared to suffer a concussion during the pregame routine for the Pacific Championship match.

However, he was allowed to play in the game and suffered two more head impacts before coming off in the later stages.

His state worsened rapidly, and he required oxygen beside the field before being removed from the field on a medicab.

The NRL has attempted to address concerns around concussions in the game in recent seasons, introducing stricter enforcement on high tackles and expanding the mandatory recovery time for affected players.