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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa will miss the complete 2026 NRL season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, after coming back from a prolonged stay in Auckland where he underwent brain surgery.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three head impacts in a single afternoon while representing Tonga in a international fixture against the Kiwis. Subsequently, he experienced seizures while on the sideline, requiring urgent medical care.

A surgical procedure to address bleeding on the brain resulted in Katoa hospitalized and initially unable to travel to his club base.

The club revealed recently that the forward has now come back and is recovering, having also made a brief visit to a Melbourne hospital.

“Eli’s health and wellbeing are our number one priority,” said Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “It is great to have him back home and under the care of our medical staff and local specialists.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rodski noted that the player is improving each day and is looking forward to pursuing his recovery in a home environment.

However, the CEO stated that there is no timeframe for Katoa’s recovery or a comeback to the field.

“After discussions with our medical team and neuro specialists, Eli won't be back to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the upcoming season,” Rodski declared. “There is a long road ahead ahead of him, and his primary goal will be on achieving complete wellness prior to contemplating a potential comeback to training.”

Rodski concluded by noting that Katoa is a much loved and respected part of the squad and organization, and that the entire club will support him fully and support him through his rehabilitation period.

League Investigation

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

Despite this, he was allowed to play in the match and suffered two additional blows to the head before being substituted in the later stages.

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

The league has attempted to address concerns around concussions in the sport in recent seasons, implementing crackdowns on dangerous contact and expanding the mandatory recovery time for affected players.