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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa will miss the entire 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, following returning from a extended period in Auckland after undergoing brain surgery.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three head impacts during a single afternoon while representing Tonga in a Pacific Championship fixture versus New Zealand. This led to seizures while off the field, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to address a brain bleed resulted in Katoa in the hospital and temporarily grounded to his club base.

The club revealed this week that the forward has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also been briefly admitted to a local medical facility.

“His health and recovery are our number one priority,” stated Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “We are thrilled to have him back home and under the supervision of our medical staff and local specialists.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rodski noted that the player is improving each day and is looking forward to continuing his rehabilitation from home.

However, the executive confirmed that there is no timeframe for his return to health or a potential return to training.

“In consultation with our doctor and neurology experts, Eli won't be back to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” Rodski declared. “There is a long road ahead ahead of him, and his focus will be on returning to full health before considering any form of return to rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Eli is a highly valued and respected part of the squad and club, and that the entire club will support him fully and assist him during his recovery.

League Investigation

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its inquiry into the events that resulted in the required neurosurgery.

The powerful forward, who was selected for the league's best lineup at the recent Dally M awards, seemed to sustain a concussion during the warm-up for the Pacific Championship match.

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

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

The NRL has attempted to address issues around head injuries in the sport in recent years, implementing stricter enforcement on high tackles and lengthening the mandatory recovery time for affected players.