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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the entire 2026 rugby league season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in his home state, after returning from a extended period in New Zealand where he underwent brain surgery.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three head impacts during a single afternoon while playing for the Tongan national team in a international match versus New Zealand. This led to seizures while off the field, requiring emergency medical attention.

A medical operation to address a brain bleed left the player in the hospital and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

The team revealed recently that Katoa 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 top concern,” said Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “It is great to have him home safely and under the supervision of our club doctor and specialist physicians.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rodski noted that the player is making daily progress and is eager to continuing his rehabilitation in a home environment.

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

“In consultation with our medical team and neuro specialists, Katoa won't be back to practice this pre-season 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 rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by noting that Eli is a highly valued and respected part of the squad and club, and that the Storm family will support him fully and assist him during his rehabilitation period.

Broader Context

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its inquiry 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 warm-up for the Pacific Championship match.

However, Katoa was allowed to play in the game and suffered 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 removed from the field on a medicab.

The NRL has attempted to address issues around head injuries in the game in recent seasons, introducing stricter enforcement on high tackles and expanding the mandatory recovery time for injured athletes.