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Melbourne Storm forward Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the complete 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in his home state, following returning from a prolonged stay in New Zealand after undergoing a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old suffered three head impacts during a single match while representing Tonga in a Pacific Championship fixture against the Kiwis. This led to seizures while on the sideline, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to relieve bleeding on the brain left Katoa in the hospital and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

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 Melbourne hospital.

“His health and recovery remain our number one priority,” said the club's chief executive a team official. “We are thrilled 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 improving each day and is eager to continuing his rehabilitation in a home environment.

Importantly, the executive confirmed that there is no set timeline for his return to health or a potential return to training.

“After discussions with our medical team and neuro specialists, Katoa will not return to practice during the preseason and won’t be available for the upcoming season,” he emphasized. “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 rugby league activities.”

Rodski finished by noting that Eli is a much loved and respected part of the squad and club, and that the Storm family will rally around him and support him through his rehabilitation period.

Broader Context

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

The talented player, who was named in the league's best lineup at the recent Dally M awards, appeared to suffer a head injury during the warm-up for the international contest.

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

Katoa’s condition deteriorated quickly, and he needed medical oxygen on the sideline before being removed from the field on a medicab.

The NRL has attempted to address concerns around concussions in the sport in recent years, implementing stricter enforcement on dangerous contact and expanding the post-concussion stand down period for affected players.