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The Storm backrower Eli Katoa has been officially ruled out the entire 2026 rugby league season as he continues his recovery at home in Victoria, following returning from a prolonged stay in Auckland where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three separate head injuries during a single match while representing the Tongan national team in a Pacific Championship match versus New Zealand. This led to convulsions while off the field, necessitating emergency medical attention.

A medical operation to relieve bleeding on the brain resulted in the player hospitalized and temporarily grounded back to Melbourne.

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

“His health and recovery remain our number one priority,” said Storm CEO a team official. “We are thrilled to have him home safely and under the supervision of our medical staff and specialist physicians.”

The Road to Recovery

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

Importantly, the CEO stated that there is no set timeline for Katoa’s recovery or a comeback to the field.

“In consultation with our medical team and neurology experts, Eli will not return to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the upcoming season,” he emphasized. “He has a long road ahead in his recovery, and his focus will be on returning to full health before considering any form of return to rugby league activities.”

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

League Investigation

The NRL is wrapping up its investigation into the circumstances that resulted in the required neurosurgery.

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

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

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

The league has attempted to address concerns around head injuries in the sport in recent seasons, introducing crackdowns on high tackles and expanding the mandatory recovery time for affected players.