🔗 Share this article

Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the entire 2026 NRL season as he continues his recovery at home in Victoria, following coming back from a extended period in Auckland after undergoing brain surgery.

What Happened

The 25-year-old suffered three separate head injuries during a single afternoon while playing for the Tongan national team in a international fixture against the Kiwis. This led to seizures while off the field, requiring emergency medical attention.

A medical operation to relieve bleeding on the brain left Katoa hospitalized and initially unable to travel 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 local medical facility.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our number one priority,” stated the club's chief executive Justin Rodski. “It is great to have him back home and under the care of our club doctor and local specialists.”

The Road to Recovery

Rodski added that the player is making daily progress and is looking forward to continuing his rehabilitation from home.

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

“After discussions with our doctor and neurology experts, Katoa will not return to practice this pre-season and won’t be available 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 noting that Eli is a highly valued and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the entire club will support him fully and assist him during his recovery.

Broader Context

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its inquiry into the events that led to Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was selected for the league's best lineup at the recent Dally M awards, appeared to suffer a concussion during the pregame routine for the Pacific Championship match.

However, he was cleared to participate in the game and suffered two additional blows to the head before being substituted 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 league has sought to tackle concerns around concussions in the game in recent years, introducing crackdowns on high tackles and lengthening the mandatory recovery time for affected players.