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The Storm backrower Eli Katoa will miss 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 after undergoing a neurosurgical procedure.

Sequence of Events

The 25-year-old athlete sustained three head impacts in a single match while representing Tonga in a international fixture against the Kiwis. This led to convulsions while on the sideline, requiring urgent medical care.

A surgical procedure to address bleeding on the brain resulted in the player hospitalized and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

The team revealed recently that the forward has now come back and is on the mend, 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 back home and under the care of our medical staff and specialist physicians.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rodski noted that the athlete is making daily progress and is looking forward to continuing his rehabilitation in a home environment.

Importantly, the CEO confirmed that there is no set timeline for Katoa’s recovery or a potential return to training.

“In consultation with our doctor and neuro specialists, Katoa won't be back to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the upcoming season,” Rodski declared. “There is a lengthy recovery process in his recovery, and his focus will be on returning to full health prior to contemplating any form of return to rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Eli 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 recovery.

Broader Context

The National Rugby League is wrapping up 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 annual awards ceremony, seemed to sustain a concussion during the pregame routine for the Pacific Championship match.

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

His state deteriorated quickly, and he required oxygen on the sideline before being removed from the field on a medicab.

The NRL has sought to tackle concerns around head injuries in the sport in recent seasons, implementing stricter enforcement on high tackles and lengthening the post-concussion stand down period for injured athletes.